Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the Nepal Embassy in New Delhi on Monday to express condolences for victims of devastating flash floods [1, 2].
The visit signals India's commitment to providing humanitarian aid and technical support to a neighboring state facing a climate-driven emergency.
During the visit, Singh signed a condolence book and wrote a message for those affected by the disaster [2, 3]. He used the occasion to reaffirm the diplomatic and emotional ties between the two nations, describing India as a "saathi" — a companion [1].
Singh said, "India is always with Nepal" [3]. He said that the two countries share a deep bond that transcends political formalities, specifically describing the relationship as "Sukh, Dukh Ke Saathi," meaning companions through happiness and sorrow [1].
Beyond the symbolic gesture of the condolence book, Singh said that India would support Nepal's ongoing search and rescue operations [3]. The flash floods have caused widespread devastation across various regions of Nepal, necessitating urgent international coordination.
Singh said, "We stand shoulder to shoulder with Nepal" [4]. This commitment comes as Nepal works to locate missing persons and provide emergency shelter to displaced families.
The meeting at the embassy serves as a high-level diplomatic signal that India is prepared to mobilize resources to assist in the recovery phase of the disaster [3, 5].
“"India is always with Nepal"”
This diplomatic gesture reinforces India's 'Neighborhood First' policy, utilizing disaster diplomacy to strengthen bilateral ties with Nepal. By pledging support for search and rescue efforts, India positions itself as a primary security and humanitarian partner in the region, balancing geopolitical influence through tangible crisis assistance.
