Indian Military in Disaster Response

We all came across this news a month ago, highlighting the unwavering presence of the Indian Armed Forces–ever ready to come to our rescue. Truly, India's Military aren't just warriors and athletes; they're our guardians in times of crisis. From rescuing the stranded to delivering aid in the most remote corners, they always put the nation first. Moreover, they've reached out to our neighbours in their hour of need as well. Let's delve into some remarkable instances of their life-saving missions.

Swift Response

One of the defining features of the Indian Military's disaster response efforts is its ability to mobilise quickly and efficiently. Whether it's earthquakes, floods, cyclones, or other emergencies, the Armed Forces are often among the first responders on the ground, ready to provide aid and relief to affected populations.

During the devastating Uttarakhand floods of 2013, for example, the Indian Army launched Operation Surya Hope, one of the largest humanitarian missions in its history. The initiative aimed to aid stranded individuals in regions like Badrinath, Hemkund, and Kedarnath, where over 60,000 people, including numerous pilgrims, were trapped. Anticipating the urgency of the situation, the Army, led by a three-star General, rapidly established its headquarters in Dehradun and deployed troops to inaccessible valleys. Setting up kiosks at strategic points, they provided crucial supplies, including food, water, and medical aid. Additionally, reconnaissance teams were dispatched to assess the situation, and medical aid posts were set up for immediate assistance. The Army's coordinated efforts, complemented by satellite phones and skilled personnel, facilitated safe evacuation and garnered widespread appreciation for their humanity and dedication.

During Cyclone Vardha, in 2016, the Indian Navy facilitated the transportation of supplies via ships to Chennai. Indian Naval Ships Shivalik and Kadmatt set sail from Visakhapatnam to Chennai to support relief efforts as part of Operation Madad. They carried extra medical teams, divers, rubber boats, a helicopter, and relief supplies including food, tents, clothes, medicines, and blankets. Additional ships had also been kept on standby for further assistance if needed.

Similarly, during the November–December 2017 devastation caused by Cyclone Ockhi along the coasts of Kanyakumari, Kerala, and Lakshadweep, the Indian Navy played a vital role by ferrying four tonnes of essential supplies including food, water, blankets, raincoats, and mosquito nets to the island of Lakshadweep. The Indian Navy's response was its most extensive humanitarian effort since the 2004 Tsunami. Over nearly 20 days, covering about 4.5 lakh square miles, 16 navy ships scoured the area. They rescued 136 survivors, recovered six bodies, and provided aid to 172 individuals across Kerala and the Lakshadweep and Minicoy Islands.

When catastrophic floods struck Kerala in 2018, the state government sought assistance from the Indian Armed Forces and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). Responding promptly, the Government of India dispatched troops to aid the state. Despite facing risks and operational challenges, Indian personnel worked tirelessly, operating beyond their usual capacities to rescue and assist those affected by the floods. The Indian Navy's Southern Naval Command (SNC) initiated Operation Madad, serving as one of the earliest responders in the flood-stricken region, earning widespread appreciation for their efforts. Helicopters were deployed to airlift people from submerged areas, while naval vessels navigated flooded streets to reach isolated communities.

Similarly, when Cyclone Fani struck the eastern coast of India in 2019, the Indian Navy swiftly deployed ships and aircraft to conduct search and rescue operations, evacuate residents from vulnerable areas, and deliver essential supplies to affected communities. Their timely intervention helped minimise casualties and alleviate suffering in the aftermath of the disaster.

Not to forget the contribution of the Indian Military during the 2014 Cyclone Hudhud, which struck the eastern coast of India, the devastating floods in Jammu and Kashmir, and the floods in Assam in 2020.

Infrastructure Support

With specialised units trained in disaster relief operations, including the Army's Corps of Engineers and the Naval Construction Wing, the Armed Forces play a crucial role in rebuilding and restoring vital infrastructure in the aftermath of disasters.

In 2001, when a massive earthquake hit Gujarat, the Indian Armed Forces was right there to provide emergency assistance and support to affected communities. The Army rapidly deployed 25,000 soldiers and essential equipment, setting up ten tented townships and makeshift hospitals to shelter and treat earthquake victims. Military hospitals in Ahmedabad and Bhuj provided additional medical aid. The IAF utilised 40 aircraft and helicopters to deliver logistics support and establish medical facilities, even activating the Bhuj air base despite suffering significant losses. Meanwhile, the Navy and Coast Guard transformed their ships into makeshift hospitals anchored off the north Gujarat coast.

In 2016, in one of the world's highest battlefields, an avalanche struck an Indian Army post in the Siachen Glacier where ten soldiers, including a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO), were buried in snow. The Army launched a massive rescue operation, deploying specialised teams equipped with search and rescue equipment to locate and evacuate soldiers trapped under the snow. Despite the harsh terrain and adverse weather conditions, the Army's efforts resulted in the successful rescue of several soldiers.

Community Engagement

Beyond their operational capabilities, the Indian Military also engages in extensive community outreach and disaster preparedness initiatives to enhance resilience and mitigate the impact of future disasters. Through programs such as the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and the Civil Defence Corps, the Armed Forces train civilians in basic first aid, search and rescue techniques, and disaster response protocols, empowering communities to respond effectively to emergencies.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indian Army launched Operation Namaste to support civil authorities in combating the spread of the virus. In addition to setting up quarantine facilities and providing medical assistance, the Army conducted awareness campaigns to educate the public about preventive measures and distributed essential supplies to vulnerable populations, demonstrating its commitment to serving the nation in times of crisis.

Operation Sadbhavana, launched by the Indian Army, focuses on fostering goodwill and trust among the local population in conflict-affected regions like Jammu and Kashmir and the Northeast. Through this initiative, the Army conducts various community development projects such as providing healthcare facilities, educational support, vocational training, and infrastructure development in remote and underprivileged areas. Also, in Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian Army operates several Army Goodwill Schools in areas affected by insurgency and conflict. These schools provide quality education to children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Humanitarian Assistance to Foreign Countries

While the primary focus of the Indian Military's disaster response efforts is within the country, there have been instances where the Indian Armed Forces have extended assistance to foreign nations in times of crisis. Aligned with our nation’s cultural ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam–the ideology that the whole world is one family, India has been steadfast in its commitment to providing Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) not only within the region but also extending its support to nations beyond.

In the aftermath of the devastating tsunami in 2004, the Indian Armed Forces orchestrated one of the largest peacetime relief operations to date. Their assistance extended not only to affected areas within India but also to neighbouring countries such as Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia. Employing a combination of naval ships, helicopters, and aircraft, the Indian Navy delivered essential provisions including food, clean water, medical aid, sanitation facilities, and shelter to those in need.

Following the devastating earthquake in Nepal in 2015, the Indian Military deployed to conduct search and rescue operations, clear debris, and repair damaged infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and buildings. Starting on 26 April 2015, Operation Maitri saw the Indian Air Force evacuating over 500 citizens from Nepal overnight. By 27 April, they had airlifted 1,935 citizens using 12 aircraft sorties, deploying 18 medical teams. The Indian Army also sent ten engineer task forces with machinery, along with 10,000 blankets and 1,000 tents. On 28 April operations expanded to remote areas, with medical teams dispatched from Rajasthan to aid relief efforts. The efforts of the Indian Armed Forces not only facilitated humanitarian assistance but also laid the foundation for long-term reconstruction and recovery in the affected areas.

In 2015, amidst escalating conflict in Yemen, the Indian Navy undertook a massive evacuation operation to rescue Indian nationals and foreign citizens stranded in Yemen. Operation Raahat, as it was called, involved deploying naval ships and aircraft to evacuate thousands of people from Yemen's port cities to safety. The Indian Navy's swift and coordinated efforts received international recognition for their effectiveness in rescuing stranded civilians during a humanitarian crisis.

Not to forget, in 2016, India extended assistance to Sri Lanka during Cyclone Roanu, provided aid during the earthquake in Indonesia in 2018, and offered support during the flooding in Madagascar in January 2020.

During times of crisis, the Indian Military, indeed, has always emerged as a steadfast ally, providing essential aid and reassurance to those grappling with adversity. Through their tireless efforts and unwavering dedication, they exemplify the resilience and unity of the nation, serving as a pillar of hope for communities in distress.