Daijiworld Media Network - Caracas
Caracas, July 6: India on Monday concluded Operation Amistad, its Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) mission in Venezuela, with the closure of the Indian Army's Field Hospital that provided emergency medical care to survivors of the devastating twin earthquakes that struck the country last month.
The relief mission was launched after powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 on the Richter scale struck Venezuela on June 24, killing more than 3,300 people and causing widespread destruction.
Announcing the conclusion of the mission, the Embassy of India in Caracas said the Indian Army medical team had earned the trust and appreciation of the Venezuelan people during its week-long deployment.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the Army Field Hospital delivered timely medical assistance to those affected by the disaster, treating numerous patients and supporting local relief efforts throughout its operations.
Several survivors and their family members expressed gratitude to the Indian medical personnel for the care they received. Videos shared by the MEA on social media showed patients and their relatives thanking the doctors, nurses and support staff for their humanitarian assistance.
One of the beneficiaries, Lizzet Rodriguez, whose son Anthony Aguilarte was treated at the field hospital for a fractured femur, thanked the Government of India and the medical team for their support during the crisis.
"I would like to thank the Government of India for providing support to the Venezuelan people during this tragedy. Thank you once again to India and to its wonderful team of doctors and interpreters," she said.
Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil also visited the Indian Field Hospital, accompanied by India's Ambassador to Venezuela, P. K. Ashok Babu.
Following the visit, Gil praised India's humanitarian response, describing the field hospital as a facility providing comprehensive, high-quality medical care to earthquake victims. On behalf of the Venezuelan government and its people, he conveyed gratitude to India and specifically thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for extending assistance during one of the country's most challenging humanitarian crises.
Operation Amistad formed part of India's Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) efforts, reflecting the country's continued commitment to providing rapid medical and emergency support to nations affected by natural disasters.