How is India Supporting Hurricane Melissa-Affected Caribbean Nations?
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Synopsis
India has taken significant steps to aid Jamaica and Cuba following the catastrophic effects of Hurricane Melissa. With 20 tonnes of humanitarian aid, the nation reaffirms its commitment to support recovery and reconstruction efforts in the wake of this devastating storm. Discover how India stands firm with its Global South partners during such crises.
Key Takeaways
- India dispatched 20 tonnes of aid to Jamaica and Cuba.
- The aid includes medical supplies, food, and hygiene kits.
- Hurricane Melissa was a Category 5 storm impacting Jamaica and a Category 3 storm in Cuba.
- India's support emphasizes its role as a responsible global partner.
- Local assessments of damage are ongoing in affected areas.
New Delhi, Nov 4 (NationPress) Demonstrating its commitment to solidarity with partners in the Global South, India has sent 20 tonnes of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) materials to both Jamaica and Cuba to aid in recovery efforts following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa.
External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar announced via X, "We have dispatched 20 tonnes each of HADR relief supplies to Jamaica and Cuba in the wake of Hurricane Melissa. An Indian Air Force flight carrying aid—including the Arogya Maitri BHISHM Cube, rehabilitation supplies, food, daily necessities, medicines, medical equipment, power generators, shelter support, and hygiene kits—has departed from New Delhi today."
He further stated, "India stands with our Global South partners in the face of such natural disasters and is committed to assisting our friends in their recovery and reconstruction efforts."
Hurricane Melissa, recognized as one of the most powerful storms in Atlantic history, has inflicted extensive damage across the Caribbean, resulting in numerous fatalities and isolating communities.
The hurricane made landfall in Jamaica on October 28 as a Category 5 storm, marking the most intense hurricane recorded in the island's history.
This catastrophic event severely impacted infrastructure, downed power lines, and left the majority of the nation without electricity.
Many regions remain unreachable, with ongoing assessments of the full extent of the devastation.
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared a disaster in Jamaica as emergency teams initiated rescue and relief operations.
The storm's eye passed over the island’s western parishes, avoiding the worst effects on the capital, Kingston.
On October 29, the hurricane struck Cuba as an "extremely dangerous" Category 3 storm, according to the US National Hurricane Center (NHC) in Miami.
Cuban officials reported "significant damage," with rising river levels trapping about 140,000 individuals.
After causing destruction in Cuba, the storm moved into the Atlantic Ocean, also affecting the Bahamas.
Point of View
I emphasize that India's proactive response to the humanitarian crisis caused by Hurricane Melissa underscores its role as a responsible global partner. Our nation is committed to helping those in need, and this aid reflects our solidarity with the Global South in challenging times.
NationPress
05/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of aid is India sending to Jamaica and Cuba?
India is sending 20 tonnes of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) materials, including food, medical supplies, and rehabilitation support.
When did Hurricane Melissa impact Jamaica and Cuba?
Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica on October 28 as a Category 5 hurricane and hit Cuba on October 29 as a Category 3 hurricane.
What was the extent of damage caused by Hurricane Melissa?
The hurricane caused significant destruction, leaving many areas inaccessible, downing power lines, and isolating communities.
How is the Indian government responding to this disaster?
The Indian government has promptly dispatched humanitarian aid while reiterating its support for its Global South partners.
What is the significance of India's aid to the Caribbean nations?
India's aid signifies its commitment to international cooperation and solidarity with nations affected by natural disasters.
