New Delhi, Sept 16:   India has commenced Operation Sadbhav on Sunday to provide emergency humanitarian aid to Vietnam, Laos, and Myanmar following the devastation caused by Typhoon Yagi. The typhoon, one of the most severe storms to impact the South China Sea in three decades, has caused extensive damage and loss of life in these countries.

The Ministry of External Affairs announced that Operation Sadbhav includes significant relief efforts. A dedicated Indian Air Force (IAF) flight has delivered 35 tonnes of aid to Vietnam, which includes items such as water purification supplies, water containers, blankets, kitchen utensils, and solar lanterns. Another IAF aircraft transported 10 tonnes of relief goods to Laos, including hygiene kits, blankets, mosquito nets, sleeping bags, generators, water purifiers, and disinfectants.

Additionally, the Indian Navy’s warship INS Satpura has delivered 10 tonnes of aid to Myanmar, comprising dry rations, clothing, and medicines. This support aims to address the widespread damage caused by Typhoon Yagi, which made landfall with winds exceeding 145 km/h. The storm has resulted in over 1,000 deaths and substantial destruction, including severe flooding and landslides.

In Vietnam, agricultural and infrastructural damages from the typhoon are estimated to exceed $1.63 billion. Laos has seen damage affecting about 40,000 people, with significant impacts on property and infrastructure. Myanmar has reported over 500 deaths linked to the storm.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar have conveyed India’s sympathy and support to the affected nations. They have reaffirmed India’s commitment through Operation Sadbhav, reflecting the country’s ‘Act East Policy’ and its broader role in humanitarian efforts within the ASEAN region.

The Ministry of External Affairs noted that Operation Sadbhav highlights India’s proactive role in providing Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) in the region.