India’s robot mules and nano drones in action in quake-hit Myanmar

India has launched a full-scale humanitarian operation named Operation Brahma to assist Myanmar following a 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck the country on March 28, killing 3,645 people, injuring over 5,000, and leaving more than five lakh people without access to essential healthcare, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). The earthquake has been described as Myanmar’s most destructive natural disaster in decades, with more than 100 aftershocks recorded and over 80% of buildings damaged in Sagaing, Mandalay, and Magway townships.

India was among the first countries to respond, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaking to Myanmar’s military leader Min Aung Hlaing a day after the disaster, offering condolences and support. PM Modi later stated at a public event in Chhattisgarh, “Recently, Myanmar experienced a devastating earthquake, and India, through Operation Brahma, was the first to respond and assist the affected population.” The Ministry of External Affairs also reaffirmed India’s commitment, stating, “It is our policy to be the first responder.”

As part of the operation, the Indian Army deployed robotic mules (Multi-Utility Legged Equipment) and nano drones to assist in search and rescue (SAR) missions across the worst-affected areas, especially in Mandalay and surrounding regions. A video released by the Army shows a robot mule walking through rubble and debris of collapsed structures. These machines have been used for navigating dangerous terrain and locating trapped survivors. An 80-member team from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) also reached Myanmar equipped with tools like drills, cutters, hammers, and concrete-breaking machines.

Additionally, India dispatched a field hospital from Agra, staffed with 118 medical workers, including orthopaedic specialists to assist the injured and help provide prosthetic limbs. The Indian Navy has played a key role by sending INS Satpura and INS Savitri, which together delivered 40 tonnes of relief supplies to Yangon. Two more Indian Navy ships are en route, carrying further consignments including food, medicines, tents, and other emergency items.

The first consignment of aid was formally handed over to Yangon’s Chief Minister U Soe Thein by India’s ambassador to Myanmar, Abhay Thakur. So far, 15 tonnes of relief materials have been supplied, and further shipments are underway. Operation Brahma continues to coordinate with Myanmar’s authorities to support ongoing rescue and rehabilitation efforts in affected areas.