In a clear demonstration of its commitment to disaster response and international cooperation, India has dispatched 20 tonnes each of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) materials to Jamaica and Cuba in the wake of **Hurricane Melissa. The consignment, sent from New Delhi on 4 November 2025, underscores India’s readiness to support its Global South partners during natural catastrophes.
What Was Sent and How
The relief shipment was carried out by an aircraft of the Indian Air Force, and included a range of items to support immediate recovery needs,
- “Aarogya Maitri BHISHM Cube” (a compact relief unit)
- Rehabilitation support items
- Food and daily utilities
- Medicines and medical equipment
- Power generators
- Shelter‑support materials
- Hygiene kits
By sending such a wide‑ranging package, India addressed multiple facets of disaster relief: health, shelter, utilities and hygiene.
Supporting the Caribbean in Crisis
- Hurricane Melissa struck the region with ferocity, making landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 storm — one of the strongest on record — and then impacting Cuba.
- The storm caused widespread destruction of infrastructure, power systems and homes, creating urgent demands for relief support.
Strengthening India’s Role as a Global Aid Partner
- By stepping forward with tangible relief, India reinforces its profile as a nation capable of both sending and supporting humanitarian aid beyond its immediate region.
- The move sends a diplomatic signal of solidarity, especially to fellow Global South nations.
- As the External Affairs Minister stated: “India stands with our Global South partners in the face of such natural disasters.”
Enhancing Disaster Response Credibility
- The use of specialised modules (like the BHISHM Cube) and coordinated delivery via the Air Force shows India’s evolving capability in high‑impact humanitarian operations.
- This adds to India’s soft‑power credentials and offers lessons for disaster‑management preparedness.
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