The Indian Army has deployed a medical team and a fully operational field hospital to Caracas, Venezuela, following a major earthquake [1].
This humanitarian mission, titled Operation Amistad, marks a significant deployment of Indian military medical assets to South America to support urgent rescue and relief efforts [1].
The operation involves a 41-member medical team [2] and the delivery of nearly 35 tonnes of relief supplies [2]. To transport the personnel and equipment, India utilized two C-17 aircraft [2]. The aid package includes essential medicines and BHISHM Cubes, which are specialized medical modules designed for rapid deployment in disaster zones [1], [2].
The field hospital is currently situated at the La Rinconada Racetrack in Caracas [1]. It provides 24x7 free medical services to the affected population [1]. The facility is designed to offer immediate stabilization and care for those injured in the seismic event, ensuring that medical assistance is available around the clock.
Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the details of the deployment are confirmed [1]. The mission focuses on alleviating the pressure on Venezuela's local healthcare infrastructure, which has been strained by the earthquake's impact [1].
By establishing a functional hospital in a public space like the racetrack, the Indian Army is providing a centralized hub for triage and treatment. This setup allows the medical team to operate independently of damaged permanent structures while delivering critical care to thousands of displaced or injured residents [1].
“The Indian Army has deployed a medical team and a fully operational field hospital to Caracas, Venezuela”
Operation Amistad demonstrates India's growing strategy of 'medical diplomacy' and its capability to project humanitarian power globally. By deploying high-tech BHISHM Cubes and heavy-lift C-17 aircraft to South America, India is strengthening its bilateral ties with Venezuela while positioning itself as a primary first responder for global disasters.
