Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting Myanmar in the aftermath of last week’s devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake, which killed over 3,000 people and severely impacted Mandalay and surrounding areas. During a meeting with Myanmar’s military junta chief, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, Modi assured continued humanitarian aid and emphasized the need for Myanmar’s return to democracy.
India Extends Relief Under Operation Brahma
India has already dispatched nearly 800 tonnes of relief materials, along with a military field hospital and a search-and-rescue team, under Operation Brahma. Modi assured Hlaing that India is prepared to send additional resources if necessary.
“Our priority is to assist the people of Myanmar in their time of need. India, as a first responder to emergencies in the region, is ready to provide further humanitarian aid and medical support,” Modi said.
Under Operation Brahma, heavy-lift military aircraft and warships delivered food, medical supplies, and essential relief items. An army field hospital with 120 personnel and an 80-member search-and-rescue team were also airlifted to Myanmar to aid recovery efforts.
Call for Restoration of Democracy
Beyond humanitarian aid, Modi also pressed Myanmar’s military leadership to restore democracy through “inclusive and credible elections.” India has consistently urged the junta to return to civilian rule since the military ousted Aung San Suu Kyi’s government in a 2021 coup.
Modi stressed that “there is no military solution to the conflict” and that lasting peace can only be achieved through inclusive dialogue. India has been closely monitoring the situation, especially as anti-junta resistance groups have seized large territories, affecting security along India’s northeastern borders.
Border Security and Regional Cooperation
The two leaders also discussed bilateral security concerns, including the activities of insurgent groups along the India-Myanmar border, human trafficking, and transnational crimes. Modi appreciated Myanmar’s role in facilitating the rescue and repatriation of Indian nationals trapped in cyber-scam centers near the Thailand border.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, briefing the media on the discussions, highlighted that both nations agreed to enhance cooperation on border security and regional stability.
As Myanmar continues to grapple with the earthquake’s devastation and ongoing political turmoil, India remains a key player in supporting humanitarian efforts while advocating for a return to democratic governance.
Sources By Agencies
