NEW DELHI: In the aftermath of the devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28, 2025, India has launched “Operation Brahma” to provide urgent humanitarian assistance to its neighbor. The earthquake, with its epicenter near Mandalay, has resulted in over 1,000 fatalities and approximately 2,376 injuries, causing widespread destruction across central Myanmar.
Under “Operation Brahma,” the Indian Air Force dispatched a C-130J aircraft carrying approximately 15 tonnes of relief materials to Yangon. The consignment includes essential items such as tents, blankets, sleeping bags, food packets, hygiene kits, generators, and medical supplies like paracetamol, antibiotics, syringes, gloves, and bandages to support those affected by the disaster. The relief material was formally handed over to Yangon’s Chief Minister U Soe Thein by India’s Ambassador Abhay Thakur.
In addition to the initial relief consignment, India is deploying an 80-member National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team to assist in rescue operations. The team, led by a Commandant-rank officer, is equipped with specialized tools and is expected to arrive in Myanmar by Saturday evening. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed solidarity with Myanmar during this challenging time and assured continued support. In a conversation with Myanmar’s junta chief, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, PM Modi conveyed condolences and reiterated India’s commitment to assisting in relief and rehabilitation efforts.
The earthquake’s impact has been severe, with significant damage to infrastructure, including collapsed buildings, bridges, and a burst dam. Rescue operations are ongoing, but efforts are hampered by damaged infrastructure and communication challenges. In Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, numerous buildings and religious sites have been destroyed, and main roads have been severely damaged, complicating relief efforts. The historic city of Bagan, known for its ancient temples, also suffered significant damage.
International aid is being mobilized, with countries such as China, Russia, Malaysia, and South Korea joining India in providing assistance. The United Nations has allocated $5 million for relief efforts. China has pledged $13.8 million worth of supplies, including tents, blankets, medical kits, and other essential items. A search and rescue team from Yunnan, China, has arrived in Yangon to participate in rescue missions. Russia has sent two aircraft with 120 doctors and rescue personnel. South Korea has pledged $2 million in humanitarian aid, and Malaysia is dispatching 50 relief personnel to Myanmar.
In neighboring Thailand, the earthquake’s tremors led to building evacuations and damage in Bangkok, where a high-rise building under construction collapsed, resulting in several deaths and many individuals reported missing. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has declared a state of emergency in Bangkok and is overseeing relief efforts.
The international community continues to coordinate efforts to address the extensive humanitarian needs prompted by this disaster. The United Nations and various humanitarian organizations are working to provide aid and support to the affected populations.