India News – India has successfully concluded Operation Amistad, its Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) mission to earthquake-hit Venezuela, after providing emergency medical care and humanitarian support to thousands affected by the devastating twin earthquakes that struck the South American nation in late June.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced the successful completion of the mission, with the Indian Army Field Hospital concluding its operations after a week of intensive medical service. The relief effort highlighted India's commitment to extending humanitarian assistance to countries facing natural disasters and humanitarian crises.
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Venezuela Earthquake – Rapid Humanitarian Response
Operation Amistad was launched on June 26, just two days after powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude caused widespread destruction across Venezuela. India swiftly deployed two Indian Air Force C-17 Globemaster aircraft carrying an Indian Army medical contingent, emergency relief supplies, advanced medical equipment and portable field hospital facilities to support the affected population.
Indian Army Field Hospital Provides Critical Medical Assistance During Week-Long Relief Operation
The mission demonstrated India's rapid response capability in international disaster relief operations, with the field hospital becoming operational soon after the team's arrival. Equipped to provide emergency healthcare, the facility treated survivors suffering from injuries and medical complications arising from the disaster.
Indian Medical Team Earns Local Appreciation
During its week-long deployment, the Indian Army medical team provided critical healthcare services to numerous patients, earning appreciation from the Venezuelan people and authorities.
According to the MEA, the field hospital touched several lives by delivering timely medical assistance in areas where local healthcare infrastructure had been severely affected by the earthquakes.
Several survivors and their families expressed gratitude to the Indian medical personnel for their treatment and compassionate care. Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil also visited the field hospital and thanked the Government and people of India for extending humanitarian support during one of the country's most challenging times.
Symbol of India-Venezuela Friendship
The mission, named Operation Amistad—meaning "friendship" in Spanish—underscored the strong ties between India and Venezuela. Following the successful completion of the operation, the MEA thanked the Venezuelan government for acknowledging India's humanitarian assistance, describing the mission as a reflection of the enduring friendship between the two nations.
Reinforcing India's Humanitarian Role
Operation Amistad adds to India's growing record of international humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. Over the years, the country has strengthened its capability to provide rapid emergency support through the coordinated deployment of military transport aircraft, medical teams and specialised disaster response equipment.
The successful completion of the Venezuela mission reinforces India's commitment to the principle of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam"—the world is one family—by extending timely assistance beyond its borders. The operation also showcased India's ability to combine logistics, medical expertise and disaster response capabilities to provide meaningful support during global emergencies, further strengthening its reputation as a reliable humanitarian partner.
Sources : Ministry of External Affairs (GoI)
