Caracas, June 29: A powerful earthquake that struck Venezuela last week has caused significant devastation. Recent reports indicate that the death toll has reached 1,450. In response to this disaster, many countries have extended their support to Venezuela. India is actively working to alleviate the suffering of the Venezuelan people. The country’s Deputy Health Minister recently visited the Indian Army field hospital.
Under Operation Amistad, India is providing relief supplies and establishing field hospital facilities in the affected areas of Venezuela. According to information shared by the Ministry of External Affairs on the social media platform X, the Army field hospital is assisting those impacted by the earthquake.
The Ministry reported that Venezuela’s Deputy Health Minister, Nahum Fernandez, along with the head of the Capital District, visited the Indian Army field hospital.
During a media interaction following the visit, he expressed gratitude for the solidarity shown, particularly towards President Delcy Rodriguez, who is overseeing the response efforts. He also acknowledged the responsibility of Maryland state in addressing this tragic event. “I want to thank all officials, especially those from India and everyone who is here with us. We are deeply grateful for the generosity and resilience shown, aided by Mexico and, of course, the support from the President of the United States,” he stated.
India is a major producer of medicines, and the Deputy Health Minister expressed appreciation for the U.S. President’s assurance that these medicines would be utilized by those suffering and injured in Venezuela.
In response to the earthquake tragedy, India has dispatched immediate humanitarian assistance under Operation Amistad. This initiative aims to strengthen relief and rescue efforts following the devastating earthquake in the South American nation.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced on X, “India’s aid has reached Venezuela. We believe that the field hospital unit, relief supplies, medicines, and medical equipment will enhance ongoing relief efforts.”
The Indian Embassy in Côte d’Ivoire also reported that two C-17 aircraft from the Indian Air Force arrived in Venezuela via Abidjan. These planes carried 35 tons of relief supplies, an Indian Army field hospital team, and two Bhishma cubes.
According to the embassy, the 41-member team includes nine medical officers. This team is equipped to provide emergency medical services, trauma management, life-saving surgeries, and other essential health services.
Additionally, the team brought along approximately six tons of medicines and humanitarian relief materials provided by the Ministry of External Affairs. A Bhishma cube, part of the Arogya Maitri project under India’s Health Initiative for Cooperation, Interest, and Friendship, was also sent on one of the aircraft.
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