India Dispatches Second Relief Flight Carrying 37.5 Tonnes of Supplies to Flood-Hit Nepal

India has intensified its humanitarian assistance to Nepal following the devastating flash floods that have caused widespread destruction and left hundreds of people unaccounted for. On Thursday, New Delhi dispatched a second aircraft carrying 37.5 tonnes of humanitarian relief material, medicines and food packets to the flood-affected country. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar confirmed the development through a post on X, saying the aircraft had departed with essential supplies for Nepal. He also stressed that India was maintaining close contact with Nepalese authorities and would continue supporting the ongoing rescue and relief operations.

The latest consignment comes a day after India sent its first relief flight carrying around 10 tonnes of emergency supplies. The assistance is being provided as Nepal continues to deal with the severe impact of flooding and landslides triggered by intense monsoon rainfall. Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava handed over the relief material to Nepal's Minister of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Khadak Raj Paudel. The supplies are expected to support people affected by the disaster, particularly communities facing shortages of food, medicines and other essential items.

The floods have damaged homes, roads, bridges, farmland and other important infrastructure in several parts of Nepal. Thousands of residents have been displaced, while emergency agencies are continuing search-and-rescue efforts in difficult conditions. India's response reflects its Neighbourhood First policy and its long-standing cooperation with Nepal during humanitarian emergencies. The Ministry of External Affairs has said New Delhi remains ready to provide additional assistance depending on the situation and requirements on the ground.

The Indian Air Force has been central to the rapid delivery of the relief material. The second mission is being operated with a C-17 Globemaster aircraft. Aircraft Commander L Nayak said the flight was carrying roughly 30 to 40 tonnes of relief material, medical supplies and NDRF-related equipment. He also explained that the aircraft had been prepared with sufficient fuel to remain airborne for some time if landing conditions in Kathmandu became difficult. Alternative Indian airbases had been kept ready in case the aircraft needed to divert and refuel.

The first relief mission was carried out using a C-130J Hercules aircraft. Air Commodore R Dobhal said the aircraft was prepared quickly after the need for assistance was identified and was loaded with medicines, generators and other relief supplies with the support of civil authorities and the National Disaster Response Force.

The Indian Air Force has previously undertaken disaster-relief missions in Nepal and other countries, including Myanmar and Sri Lanka. The latest operation once again highlights India's ability to mobilise aircraft and emergency supplies quickly during regional crises. As Nepal's rescue and recovery efforts continue, India is expected to remain in close coordination with Kathmandu. Further assistance could be sent if requested, with the immediate focus remaining on reaching affected communities and supplying essential items to those impacted by the floods.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.