‘India Stands in Solidarity’ PM Modi Speaks To Junta Chief After Myanmar Earthquake

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended India’s support to Myanmar’s junta chief, Senior General H.E. Min Aung Hlaing, following a catastrophic earthquake that claimed over 1,000 lives. As part of ‘Operation Brahma,’ India swiftly dispatched 15 tonnes of relief material to Yangon on Saturday morning, reinforcing its role as a first responder to the crisis gripping its neighbour.

The powerful earthquake, which struck on Friday, wreaked havoc across Myanmar, with Mandalay—its second-largest city and closest to the epicentre—bearing the brunt of the casualties. Official reports confirm over 1,000 deaths, with thousands injured as buildings collapsed and bridges crumbled in multiple regions. The tremors were also felt in Thailand, where a 30-storey skyscraper under construction in Bangkok collapsed, trapping workers under debris.

Under ‘Operation Brahma,’ an Indian Air Force aircraft delivered essential supplies to Yangon, including tents, blankets, sleeping bags, food packets, hygiene kits, generators, and medicines. The initiative reflects India’s commitment to aiding Myanmar during this disaster.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “Operation Brahma – India acts as a First Responder to assist the people of Myanmar affected by yesterday’s massive earthquake. Our first tranche of 15 tonnes of relief material has landed in Yangon.”

In a call with Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, PM Modi expressed India’s solidarity. “Spoke with Senior General H.E. Min Aung Hlaing of Myanmar. Conveyed our deep condolences at the loss of lives in the devastating earthquake,” he posted on X. He added, “As a close friend and neighbour, India stands in solidarity with the people of Myanmar in this difficult hour,” highlighting the dispatch of relief and rescue teams.

Rescue operations are ongoing in both Myanmar and Thailand. In Mandalay, workers are combing through rubble to find survivors, while in Bangkok, emergency teams are focused on freeing workers trapped after the skyscraper collapse. The scale of destruction has left both nations reeling. The earthquake’s impact extended beyond Myanmar, affecting neighbouring countries and prompting a swift international response.

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India’s relief efforts under ‘Operation Brahma’ include not just supplies but also search and rescue teams to assist Myanmar’s affected regions. The 15-tonne consignment landed in Yangon on Saturday morning, marking the first wave of aid from New Delhi. The Indian Embassy in Yangon is coordinating with local authorities to ensure swift distribution of the materials, while also monitoring the safety of the Indian community in Myanmar.

With rescue operations still underway, the full extent of the earthquake’s toll remains unclear. Myanmar and Thailand continue to grapple with the aftermath, and India has signaled readiness to provide further assistance as needed. Updates on casualties and relief efforts are expected in the coming days. India’s proactive role underscores its position as a key regional partner in times of crisis.