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Operation Sadbhav
Context:
India has launched ‘Operation Sadbhav’ to provide critical humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) to the nations of Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam, which have been severely affected by the devastating Typhoon Yagi.
More on News:
- The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has announced a commitment of $1 million in flood relief assistance to Vietnam and $100,000 to Laos.
- The operation underscores India’s commitment to supporting its neighbours in times of crisis. The Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force (IAF) have been mobilised to deliver this aid.
Typhoon Yagi’s Devastation
- Typhoon Yagi, the most powerful tropical cyclone to hit Asia in 2024, has wreaked havoc across Southeast Asia.
- Originating as a tropical storm in the western Philippine Sea, Typhoon Yagi intensified into a Category 5 storm and made landfall in China’s Hainan province with winds reaching 223 km/h.
- The typhoon has resulted in widespread devastation, displacing millions and causing significant casualties, with the death toll in Vietnam rising to 233 as rescue operations continue.
Key Highlights:
- The operation has seen coordinated efforts from various branches of the Indian armed forces.
- The Eastern Naval Command, in collaboration with the Eastern Fleet and other supporting units, successfully loaded humanitarian aid onto the Indian naval warship destined for Yangon, Myanmar.
- The IAF’s C-17 Globemaster aircraft, known for its large cargo capacity and long-range capabilities, played a crucial role in airlifting aid to Vietnam and Laos.
Aid Distribution:
- Myanmar: Ten tonnes of aid, including dry rations, clothing, and medicines, were dispatched to Myanmar onboard the Indian naval ship INS Satpura.
- Vietnam: The 35 tonnes of aid includes water purification items, water containers, blankets, kitchen utensils, and solar lanterns.
- Laos: Received ten tonnes of aid comprising generators, water purification items, hygiene supplies, mosquito nets, blankets, and sleeping bags.
- Operation Sadbhav is part of India’s broader effort to contribute to HADR in the ASEAN region, in line with its ‘Act East Policy.’