India Sends Relief Teams and Aid to Myanmar After Devastating Earthquake.

India's National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is leading rescue and relief efforts in Myanmar as part of Operation Bharma.

Myanmar is still reeling from the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck on March 28. As the region’s first responder in times of crisis, India has been providing crucial assistance.

NDRF Deputy Commander Kunal Tiwari, overseeing the search and rescue operations, shared updates on Wednesday. He stated that the NDRF team comprises 80 personnel, supported by four specially trained canines and advanced equipment for rigging, lifting, cutting, and bridging.

Despite the challenges, NDRF Deputy Commander Kunal Tiwari expressed confidence in the team's ability to navigate them. He emphasized their expertise in recovery operations, including the dignified handling of mortal remains.

"Our team consists of 80 members, supported by four canines and heavy-duty equipment for rigging, lifting, cutting, and bridging. We are fully equipped," Tiwari said.

He also highlighted the strong support from Myanmar’s local population, underscoring the deep bond between the two nations. "India has extended a helping hand to Myanmar, and in return, the people of Myanmar have shown immense warmth and support. Wherever we go, we receive their full cooperation, making our work more effective," he added.

Addressing concerns over aftershocks, Tiwari assured that safety remains the team’s top priority. All personnel are equipped with personal protective equipment (PPE), and strict protocols, including marking escape routes and designating safe zones, are followed before any operation begins.

"Safety comes first. We are all trained for it. Each member has proper PPE for protection. Before starting any task, we carefully mark escape routes and safe zones, ensuring the safety officer is informed," he stated.

Mandalay, the worst-hit city, has been divided into four operational sectors—Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, and Delta. India is responsible for the heavily affected Delta sector, covering 11 of the 15 designated work sites, providing critical relief and intervention.

A local Myanmar monk expressed deep gratitude for India’s relief efforts, stating he was both satisfied and thankful for the assistance. Another local, Hussain, also shared his appreciation, describing the arrival of the Indian team as a moment of immense relief.

"We felt a great sense of comfort when you arrived. Indians are incredibly hardworking people. We are happy and at peace. The presence of the NDRF has helped us tremendously. May God bless India and its leadership," he said.

As part of Operation Brahma, India has delivered 625 metric tonnes of humanitarian aid and disaster relief materials to Myanmar as of Tuesday.

The operation underscores India’s role as a first responder in the region, providing essential search and rescue assistance, medical aid, and disaster relief following the devastating March 28 earthquake. It is a coordinated effort involving multiple branches of the Indian government to support Myanmar’s recovery.

Additionally, the Indian Army has established a Field Hospital, offering critical medical care to those affected. According to an official statement, the medical team has performed 23 surgeries, conducted over 1,300 laboratory investigations, and completed 103 X-ray procedures as of Thursday evening.

Meanwhile, according to Al Jazeera, citing a national television report, more than 3,000 people have now been confirmed dead in Myanmar. In response to the crisis, the military has announced a temporary truce.