Unforgettable Rescue Operations By Indian Armed Forces

In this blog, we highlight five incredible operations conducted by the Indian Armed Forces that demonstrate India's humanitarian spirit and dedication to helping those in need, both within its borders and beyond.

Operation Sukoon

In 2006, during the Lebanon War, Operation Sukoon was launched to evacuate Indian, Sri Lankan, Nepalese, and Lebanese nationals trapped in the conflict zone. Conducted by the Indian Navy, the operation was carried out in a dangerous and unpredictable environment. The Israeli-Lebanese conflict was ongoing, and there was a risk of attacks from both sides.

As tensions escalated, the Indian Navy's task force, including INS Mumbai, INS Brahmaputra, INS Batwa, and INS Shakti, swung into action. Over 2,000 people were evacuated, including 1,764 Indians. The four naval vessels also contained 115 tons of aid from both the Indian and Cyprus governments—medical supplies, clothing and blankets, antiseptics, food, baby milk powder and canned goods. The operation provided much-needed relief to those affected and showcased India's commitment to the safety of its citizens and friends in distress.

Operation Maitri

In the aftermath of the devastating earthquake in Nepal in 2015, Operation Maitri was initiated by India to assist those affected. The IAF dispatched one C-130J, two C-17s, and one IL-76 to airlift 295 NDRF personnel, 46.5 tonnes of cargo, and five sniffer dogs.

A great deal of relief material was airlifted for over a month. Among these were water, blankets, tents, paramedics, stretchers, medicines, prepared food, milk, utensils, vegetables, Meals Ready to Eat, RO plants, oxygen regenerators, Air Force Communication Centre vehicles, Rapid Action Medical Teams, transportable operating rooms, X-ray machines, laboratories and beds, among others.

India was the first country to respond within 15 minutes of the earthquake, launching a full-fledged rescue and relief effort. India's response saved lives and symbolised the spirit of friendship and solidarity between the two nations.

Operation Raahat

Operation Raahat was a rescue operation launched by the Indian Armed Forces in April 2015 to evacuate Indian citizens and foreign nationals from Yemen, which was in the midst of a civil war. The operation was carried out by the Indian Navy and Air Force, and it involved the deployment of over 30 ships and aircraft.

The operation was a success, and over 5,600 people were evacuated from Yemen, including 4,640 Indian citizens and 960 foreign nationals from 41 countries. The Indian Armed Forces were able to successfully evacuate all of the evacuees without any casualties.

Operation Nistar

Operation Nistar was undertaken by the Indian Navy to rescue stranded Indians on Socotra Island in Yemen. It occurred due to the devastation caused by Cyclone Mekunu in 2018. The Indian nationals were stranded for nearly ten days after Cyclonic Mekunu devastated the area around Socotra Island. INS Sunaya played a crucial role in evacuating 38 individuals, providing them with essential aid, medical care, and a safe return home. The group was received by rear Admiral Sanjay Roy. The operation showcased India's dedication to protecting its citizens, irrespective of their location, and fostered stronger diplomatic ties with Yemen.

Operation Samudra Setu-II

Operation Samudra Setu-II was launched to bring oxygen supplies to India during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in May 2020. Indian Navy ships, including INS Kolkata, Kochi, Talwar, Trikand, Jalashwa, and Rawat, were deployed for this critical mission. The ships brought 900 oxygen field cylinders, 10,000 rapid antigens COVID-19 test kits, 54 oxygen concentrators and 450 PPE kits from various nations to India. Several prominent countries, including the US, Russia, France, Germany, Australia, Ireland, Belgium, Romania, Luxembourg, Singapore, Portugal, Sweden, New Zealand, Kuwait, and Mauritius extended their support to import the necessary resources. This operation utilised the country’s naval assets to establish a Maritime Bridge connecting various nations with India. Besides, it was a reactionary step towards the crisis and emergency caused by COVID-19.

The above five extraordinary rescue operations reflect the indomitable spirit, courage, and selflessness of our Armed Forces. The triumphs achieved through these operations not only saved lives but also strengthened bonds between India and other nations. They stand as a testament to the Indian Armed Forces’s courage to protect its citizens and extend a helping hand to those in need, embodying the true spirit of unity and compassion.