Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday expressed deep condolences over the massive 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar, causing widespread devastation. Speaking with Myanmar’s junta chief, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, PM Modi assured that India stands firmly with its neighbor in this time of crisis.

"Spoke with Senior General H.E. Min Aung Hlaing of Myanmar. Conveyed our deep condolences at the loss of lives in the devastating earthquake. As a close friend and neighbor, India stands in solidarity with the people of Myanmar in this difficult hour. Disaster relief material, humanitarian assistance, and search & rescue teams are being expeditiously dispatched to the affected areas as part of Operation Brahma," PM Modi posted on X.

As part of 'Operation Brahma,' India has deployed an 80-member team from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to assist in rescue and relief efforts. The NDRF personnel, equipped with advanced search and rescue equipment such as concrete cutters, drill machines, and hammers, have been airlifted to Myanmar in two IAF sorties from Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad.

Commandant P K Tiwary of the 8th NDRF battalion is leading the Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team. Additionally, rescue dogs trained in collapsed structure search operations have been sent following International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) protocols.

"A team of 80 NDRF personnel are being airlifted to Myanmar onboard two IAF sorties from Hindon in Ghaziabad. The teams are expected to reach by Saturday evening," an official confirmed to PTI.

Friday's earthquake, which struck Myanmar and neighboring Thailand, has left more than 1,002 people dead and caused severe damage to buildings, bridges, and essential infrastructure. As part of its 'Act East' policy, India has reaffirmed its commitment to assisting Myanmar in its recovery efforts.