The Indian Army has deployed advanced technology, including Robotic Mules and nano drones, to assist in earthquake relief operations in Myanmar. This marks the first time India has utilized such cutting-edge tools in disaster response on foreign soil, showcasing a blend of innovation and humanitarian aid following a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar over two weeks ago.
The earthquake, which left a trail of destruction in Mandalay and surrounding areas, claimed approximately 1,700 lives, injured 3,400, and left hundreds missing, according to Myanmar’s military leadership. The disaster has exacerbated the challenges faced by nearly 20 million people already in need of aid in the region. In response, India launched Operation Brahma, a comprehensive relief mission aimed at supporting Myanmar during this crisis.
Under Operation Brahma, India airlifted over 650 metric tons of relief materials to Myanmar, utilizing both air and sea routes. A team of 118 medical personnel from the Indian Army established a field hospital in Mandalay, the city hardest hit by the quake. Additionally, an 80-member National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team was deployed to Naypyidaw to conduct search and rescue operations. The operation reflects India’s commitment to standing in solidarity with Myanmar, as emphasized by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a conversation with Myanmar’s leader, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.
The deployment of Robo-Mules and nano drones has been a focal point of this mission. The Robo-Mules, robotic systems designed to navigate challenging terrains, were used to assess casualties in the rubble of collapsed buildings, reducing risks to human rescuers. Meanwhile, nano drones provided aerial surveillance, likely aiding in mapping damaged areas and locating survivors trapped under debris. This technological intervention has been hailed as a significant step forward in disaster management, with the Indian Army leveraging innovation to enhance the efficiency of its relief efforts.
The Indian Army’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. Myanmar’s top leader, Min Aung Hlaing, and Mandalay’s chief minister visited the field hospital, expressing gratitude for India’s swift and impactful assistance. The operation also aligns with India’s broader disaster management strategy, which emphasizes preparedness, prevention, and mitigation alongside rapid response—a shift from the traditional relief-centric approach.
As Myanmar continues to grapple with the aftermath of the earthquake, India’s deployment of advanced technology in Operation Brahma sets a new precedent for international disaster relief. While challenges and criticisms remain, the mission underscores the potential of innovation to save lives and rebuild communities in the face of natural calamities.
