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Army Chief Hails Forces' Rescue of 30,000 Across Nations, States

Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi highlighted the Indian Army's extensive Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations, which spanned two neighbouring countries and ten Indian states. The forces successfully rescued over 30,000 people, conducting international missions in Sri Lanka and Myanmar following major natural disasters. Domestically, Division commanders in border states were given full authority to act swiftly, often before formal state requests. The Army is also progressing on its plan to establish 17 dedicated, strategically located HADR units across India to enhance rapid response capabilities.

Key Points: Indian Army's HADR Ops Rescue 30,000 in 2 Nations, 10 States

  • Rescued over 30,000 people
  • Operated in Sri Lanka & Myanmar
  • Active in 10 Indian states
  • '17 HADR Bricks' units taking shape
  • Focus on border state rapid response
2 min read

'Humanitarian operations in two countries, 10 states', Gen Dwivedi hails Indian Army's motivation

Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi details Indian Army's humanitarian missions in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and 10 Indian states, rescuing over 30,000 people.

"These three reaffirm our role as the natural first responder during HADR crisis. - General Upendra Dwivedi"

New Delhi, Jan 13

Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi on Tuesday mentioned the Indian Army's operation across two neighbouring nations and 10 states under the Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief policy, and hailed the relentless efforts made by the forces during the rescue missions.

Addressing the annual press conference of the Indian Army here, Gen Dwivedi said, "As regards the Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), the Army operated across two neighbouring countries and 10 states. It rescued over 30,000 people, and during the Punjab floods in Pathankot, some of you would recollect the daring rescue of the CRPF personnel by an Army aviation helicopter from a collapsing building."

In 2025, the Indian Army carried out rescue and relief operations in Sri Lanka, under Operation Sagar Bandhu, during and in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, and in Myanmar, under Operation Brahma, following a powerful earthquake.

Talking about the domestic disaster response, the Army chief said, "In the border states, where I have given full authority to my Div. (Division) commanders, the Army was able to act even before formal requests were received from states. These three reaffirm our role as the natural first responder during HADR crisis."

"I must mention 14 Raj Rif, Dharali, Uttarakhand, which lost one JCO and nine other ranks, continued to focus on completing the rescue operation and coordination in the initial stages, and that is what the military motivation is all about," he added.

"Our 17 HADR Bricks, which we have planned, are gradually taking shape pan-India," he added.

The Indian Army's '17 HADR Bricks' refers to 17 dedicated HADR units, strategically located across India. These were announced by the Army chief in early 2025.

These units are designed to be first responders for rapid disaster relief, especially in border areas, showcasing enhanced preparedness with specialised equipment for quicker, more effective rescue and aid operations, forming crucial quick-reaction teams for calamities.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
This is the real motivation. The sacrifice of that JCO and nine soldiers in Uttarakhand while still focusing on the rescue mission... it's heartbreaking and inspiring at the same time. We can never thank them enough.
R
Rohit P
Giving full authority to Division commanders in border states to act without waiting for formal requests is a game-changer. In disasters, every minute counts. Smart move by the leadership.
S
Sarah B
While the humanitarian work is commendable, I hope there is equal focus and transparency on the budget and resources allocated for these 17 new HADR units. Efficient use of taxpayer money is crucial.
V
Vikram M
Operation Sagar Bandhu and Brahma show our commitment to the neighbourhood first policy. Helping neighbours in crisis builds lasting goodwill. It's strategic and compassionate.
K
Kavya N
My cousin was rescued by the Army in the Pathankot floods. They risked their lives to save others without a second thought. These numbers (30,000+ rescued) represent real families given a second chance. God bless our soldiers.

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