India rushes to help Nepal (Img: X)
New Delhi: India has stepped up its humanitarian assistance to flood-hit Nepal by sending 62 tonnes of emergency relief supplies, becoming the first major country to physically deliver aid after the Himalayan disaster.
The swift response came after devastating flash floods struck Nepal’s Himalayan region, killing hundreds and leaving thousands missing. The move has reinforced India’s role as a “first responder” during major international disasters.
India delivered the relief material through three separate airlifts.
The first Indian Air Force aircraft carried temporary shelters, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps and essential medicines. A second aircraft transported large quantities of relief items, including tents, generators, dewatering pumps, kitchen equipment, medical supplies and food materials.
A third flight carrying additional humanitarian assistance was also dispatched to Kathmandu.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Nepal’s Prime Minister after the disaster and expressed condolences over the loss of lives.
He assured that India would provide all possible humanitarian assistance and said Indian teams were working closely with Nepal on rescue and relief operations.
The disaster has caused widespread destruction across Nepal, with floods and landslides damaging roads, bridges and communication networks.
According to officials, at least 579 people have died in Nepal, while more than 1,900 people remain missing, including hundreds of Indian nationals.
Scientists are also investigating whether a possible glacial collapse or ice-rock avalanche contributed to the sudden flood surge in the Himalayan region.
Several countries and international organisations have announced assistance for Nepal.
China has committed emergency supplies and financial support, while the UAE, UK, Australia, South Korea, Sri Lanka and the United States have announced humanitarian aid packages.
The World Bank, United Nations and international relief organisations have also pledged emergency funding and medical assistance.
India has previously provided emergency assistance during disasters in countries including Türkiye, Syria, Myanmar and Sri Lanka.
The Nepal relief operation further highlights New Delhi’s growing role in delivering quick humanitarian support during regional crises.
