India delivers aid to earthquake-hit Venezuela under Operation Amistad
The Indian government launched Operation Amistad on June 26, 2026, to provide humanitarian assistance to Venezuela following a series of powerful earthquakes. Two Indian Air Force C-17 Globemaster aircraft departed from India carrying relief supplies and a 41-member rescue team, including medical professionals and search-and-rescue personnel.
The relief consignment includes over 35 tonnes of supplies, comprising a self-reliant Indian medical task force, an Indian Army Field Hospital unit, medicines, medical equipment, and two BHISHM cube portable hospitals. The 41-member team will work with Venezuelan authorities in search-and-rescue operations and emergency medical care.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced the operation on social media, stating, 'Operation Amistad underway! Two @IAF_MCC C17s took-off today for Venezuela with urgent assistance to support their post-earthquake relief efforts.' The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement, 'India stands shoulder to shoulder with the government and the people of Venezuela during this difficult period.'
The earthquakes, of magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5, struck on June 24, 2026, causing widespread destruction. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez reported that the death toll had risen to 920, with 3,360 injured, as of early June 26. Thousands remain missing, and the number of casualties may increase.
This is not the first time India has provided disaster relief abroad. Under its policy of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), India has previously sent aid to countries such as Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar. Operation Amistad underscores India's commitment to supporting nations in crisis, consistent with its constitutional values of international cooperation and solidarity.
