Indian Navy Launches Operation Vanilla To Provide Assistance To Disaster-Hit Madagascar

Extending support to the cyclone flood-hit nation of Madagascar, the Indian Navy on Tuesday (28 January) deployed its amphibious ship, INS Airavat, to undertake humanitarian assistance and disaster-relief mission as part of ‘Operation Vanilla’, reports The Hindu.

The Operation Vanilla has been launched to provide assistance to the affected population of Madagascar post devastation caused by Cyclone Diane, Defence Ministry said in a statement.

Following the cyclone, there has been heavy flooding and landslides in Madagascar since last week causing loss of lives and displacement of a number of people.

In view of the alarming state of affairs in the nation, the President of Madagascar took to social media website Twitter to reach out to the world, requesting international mobilisation to assist it in containing the situation.

The INS Airavat ship which was en route Seychelles was thereafter diverted to Madagascar with five pallets of clothing and victualing along with three pallets of medicines. The ship also has on board stores to provide help with temporary food and shelter.

During the port call, the ship, in coordination with Embassy of India and Government of Madagascar is planned to undertake relief operations to provide succour to the flood affected populace.  The Indian Navy Ship is geared to set up medical camp and provide food, water and other necessary relief material, the statement said.