India launched Operation Brahma in the early hours today to assist earthquake-hit Myanmar. Briefing media in New Delhi this afternoon, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal informed that the first aircraft carrying 15 tonnes of relief material took off at around 3 AM from Hindon Air Force base and reached Yangon at around 8 AM. He said the Indian ambassador was there to receive the material.

The spokesperson also informed that there are around 50 to 60 thousand Indian nationals in Myanmar, and no casualties have been reported so far among them.  Indian Embassy is in touch with Indian community organizations.

        The spokesperson stated that two aircraft with Search and Rescue personnel and equipment, along with canines, are being sent to Nay Pyi Taw. An 80-member strong NDRF search and rescue team, along with equipment and relief material, are being sent. They are expected to reach Nay Pyi Taw later this evening and will be taken to the Mandalay area, which has seen maximum devastation.

        Mr Jaiswal said the third tranche of support being provided comprises a field hospital with around 118 specialists, including doctors and medics. IThe ndian Ambassador is present in Nay Pyi Taw for all required coordination.   Addressing the media at the special briefing, DIG NDRF Mohsen Shahidi said the next 24-48 hours would be very crucial. He said they look forward to a very active involvement on the ground.

        Commodore Raghu Nair, Indian Navy, said they have four ships prepared for HADR operations. Two ships have sailed – INS Savitri and INS Satpura- which will reach Yangon on the morning of the 31st of March. Commodore Nair said that around 50 tonnes of relief material are being transported to Yangon, including clothes, essential medicines, rations, soap and sanitizers.