India launches ‘Operation Sadbhav’ to aid typhoon-hit Southeast Asia

New Delhi, Sep 15: India has launched Operation Sadbhav, supporting emergency humanitarian assistance to Laos, Vietnam, and Myanmar in the wake of devastating floods and landslides caused by Typhoon Yagi. The disaster has severely impacted northern Laos and Vietnam, displacing thousands and damaging property and agricultural land.

India sent 10 tonnes of relief supplies to Laos, including hygiene kits, blankets, mosquito nets, sleeping bags, water purifiers, and other essential items, said an official press release of the Ministry of the External Affairs.

These supplies were airlifted on a special aircraft to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR) to assist around 40,000 people affected by the floods.

Similarly, India has extended aid to Vietnam, airlifting 35 tonnes of humanitarian assistance, including water purification equipment, blankets, kitchen utensils, and solar lanterns. The relief effort underscores India’s commitment to providing rapid support to its neighbors in times of crisis, MEA said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed India’s solidarity with the Vietnamese government shortly after the typhoon struck. External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar also expressed sympathies to Vietnam’s Deputy Prime Minister, Bui Thanh Son, emphasising India's readiness to support affected communities.

Operation Sadbhav is part of India’s broader Act East Policy, aiming to strengthen ties and provide disaster relief within the ASEAN region. India has consistently been among the first responders in Southeast Asia during humanitarian crises, reflecting its commitment to regional cooperation.

In addition to its efforts in Laos and Vietnam, India is preparing to assist Myanmar, where severe flash floods caused by Typhoon Yagi have created widespread devastation. Defence ministry press release said that the Indian Navy is mobilizing for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations, with naval ships from Visakhapatnam being loaded with essential relief supplies, including food, drinking water, medicines, and emergency gear.

The Eastern Naval Command, in coordination with the Eastern Fleet, has swiftly organised the shipment of these supplies to Yangon, demonstrating India's quick response capabilities in disaster relief operations. Despite short notice, the Navy’s readiness to aid Myanmar highlights the country’s role as a key humanitarian partner in the region.