On March 28, 2025, a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar and Thailand, causing widespread devastation and claiming over 1600 lives. In the aftermath of the disaster, India swiftly launched ‘Operation Brahma,’ a humanitarian mission to aid Myanmar, becoming one of the first responders in rescue and relief efforts.
What does Operation Brahma include?
India’s humanitarian response includes medical aid, relief materials, logistics, search and rescue operations, and diplomatic engagement. India has deployed 118 member Army field hospitals in Mandalay, which includes a 60-bed Medical Treatment Centre offering emergency surgical and trauma care.
India’s relief efforts also extend to naval assistance, with two Indian naval ships delivering 40 tonnes of aid—including tents, blankets, food, and medicines—while two more ships are set to follow. Further, the Indian Air Force has conducted relief operations, delivering 15 tonnes of essential supplies such as water purifiers, hygiene kits, sleeping bags, and food packets.
For search and rescue operations, India has deployed an 80-member National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team equipped with specialized rescue equipment and trained dogs.
India’s diplomatic engagement
India’s Operation Brahma is both a humanitarian mission and a diplomatic initiative to strengthen ties with Myanmar while reinforcing India’s role as a regional first responder. Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally reached out to Myanmar’s military chief, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, stating, “As a close friend and neighbour, India stands in solidarity with the people of Myanmar in this difficult hour.” External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasised India’s commitment by announcing the deployment of an 80-member NDRF team and multiple relief shipments. Meanwhile, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted India’s strategic approach, saying, “It is our policy to be the first responder.” These high-level engagements have ensured the swift delivery of India’s humanitarian aid while simultaneously strengthening bilateral relations, enhancingregional stability, and bolstering India’s influence in Southeast Asia.
A brief overview of India’s past humanitarian operations
India has a history of humanitarian operations similar to Operation Brahma, reaffirming its commitment to assisting neighbouring countries in times of crisis.
One significant example was Operation Maitri in 2015, when India launched a large-scale relief mission following the devastating earthquake in Nepal. It involved deploying NDRF teams, medical personnel, and essential relief materials to aid in rescue and relief efforts.
Another notable initiative was Operation Insaniyat in 2017, in response to the humanitarian crisis involving Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. India provided essential supplies such as food, medical aid, and other relief materials, to support the displaced population.
Similarly, after the Indian Ocean tsunami in 2004, India extended substantial aid to Sri Lanka, sending medical teams, supplying relief materials, and assisting in rehabilitation efforts.
Thus, Operation Brahma serves as a multifaceted initiative for India, showcasing its commitment to humanitarian aid and regional solidarity. Once again, India has demonstrated its ability to swiftly mobilise resources and coordinate relief efforts. As a first responder, India has addressed Myanmar’s urgent needs while strengthening bilateral ties. This mission aligns with India’s Act East policy, reinforcing its strategic presence in Southeast Asia. Through Operation Brahma, India reaffirms its role as a regional leader in humanitarian diplomacy, fostering goodwill and cooperation with its neighbours.
