National: Following an official request for assistance from the government of Myanmar in the wake of a devastating earthquake, India has dispatched a specialist team of Indian Army Engineers to the affected nation. The deployment, which commenced on April 6, 2025, is part of Operation Brahma, underscoring India’s ongoing commitment to providing regional support and humanitarian relief during times of crisis.
The Indian Army has confirmed the arrival of an Engineer Recce Team, led by their Commanding Officer and comprising one officer and five personnel. This team has been specifically tasked with conducting a thorough assessment of the infrastructure damaged by the recent earthquake in the regions of Mandalay and Naypyitaw. Their expert evaluation will provide critical technical insights to guide the ongoing relief and reconstruction efforts in Myanmar.
This deployment signifies a vital step in India’s sustained efforts to aid Myanmar following the catastrophic 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck the country on March 28. Operation Brahma, India’s dedicated humanitarian initiative, has also extended support to the Indian diaspora residing in the Yangon region.
The Indian Embassy in Myanmar reported that Ambassador Abhay Thakur personally handed over 15 tonnes of essential supplies, including rice, cooking oil, and other foodstuff, to a local community relief organization in Yangon. Similarly, the Consulate General of India in Mandalay contributed a generator set, a water purifier, and cooking oil to the kitchen of the Ambika temple, which is currently providing meals to approximately 4,000 individuals daily.
In addition to these efforts, India has established a Field Hospital in Mandalay to provide medical treatment to those injured in the earthquake. As of April 9, the Indian Army reported that a total of 1,651 patients had received care at the facility, with 281 patients treated on that day alone. Indian medical teams have also performed seven major surgeries and 38 minor procedures. Furthermore, India delivered 442 tonnes of food aid last Friday, bringing the total humanitarian supplies sent under Operation Brahma to 625 metric tonnes.
To further bolster rescue operations on the ground, India has also deployed a contingent of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), comprising 80 personnel and four specially trained canine units. Their expertise is expected to significantly enhance the ongoing search and rescue efforts in the affected areas.
According to the latest reports from Myanmar’s State Administration Council, the earthquake has tragically resulted in 3,645 fatalities, with 5,017 people injured and 148 individuals still missing. The widespread damage across six regions, including the capital, and the disruption of critical infrastructure have created a dire humanitarian situation. This natural disaster has further exacerbated an already severe humanitarian crisis stemming from the ongoing civil war, which, according to UN figures cited by Al Jazeera, has displaced over three million people and left nearly 20 million in need of assistance.
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