NEW DELHI, Mar 1 : A delegation of 28 international defence journalists from 25 countries visited an Indian Army formation specialising in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations at Agra, Uttar Pradesh.
The visit provided firsthand exposure to the Indian Army’s rapid-response capabilities and highlighted the concerned formation’s high level of operational readiness, specialised training, and firm commitment to functioning as a first responder during natural disasters in India and across the world, according to an army spokesperson statement.
The visit included a detailed briefing on aspects pertaining to HADR operations. The planning framework, preparatory protocols and execution mechanisms that enable swift deployment were explained. The delegation was also informed about rapid mobilisation timelines, structured coordination with civil administration and host governments and the operational integration of the formation’s dedicated HADR Task Force to provide immediate medical and logistical support in disaster-affected areas.
The briefing emphasised India’s focus on prompt, coordinated, and humane response measures aimed at minimising human suffering during crises.
A major highlight of the visit was a comprehensive display of specialised HADR equipment. Journalists were shown advanced rescue tools, watercraft, and flood-relief equipment, portable bridging systems, and specialised medical kits designed for mass-casualty management in austere field conditions.
The interaction reinforced the Indian Army’s role not only as a combat-ready force, but also as a dependable partner in regional stability, humanitarian assistance, and international goodwill, it concluded.
(UNI)
