BIMSTEC Nations Urged To Deepen Security Cooperation Against Terrorism And Cross-Border Crime: Amit Shah

India has reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with BIMSTEC member states to combat terrorism, organised crime and illegal drug trafficking, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah calling for stronger regional coordination to tackle increasingly sophisticated cross-border criminal networks.

Speaking at the first BIMSTEC Home Ministers' Meeting in New Delhi, Shah said criminal syndicates frequently exploit weaknesses across national boundaries, making regional cooperation essential. He noted that the nature and operations of these networks are evolving rapidly, requiring coordinated and practical responses from member countries.

The inaugural meeting brought together representatives of the seven BIMSTEC nations as efforts intensify to strengthen collective action against transnational security threats. Shah described the event as a significant milestone for India and said BIMSTEC had emerged as a key platform for regional integration, economic collaboration and collective security.

Reaffirming India's longstanding commitment to peaceful coexistence, Shah said the country remained guided by the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and continued to prioritise human welfare, peace and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations. He stressed that India does not believe in aggression or domination and has consistently supported the peaceful resolution of differences.

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks at the sixth BIMSTEC Summit held in Thailand on 4 April 2025, Shah said BIMSTEC should be viewed not only as a regional grouping but also as a model for inclusive development and security. He emphasised that member states must now translate political cooperation into practical mechanisms that enhance public safety and improve the effectiveness of law-enforcement agencies.

Shah said Home Ministers across the region share a responsibility to build operational frameworks that strengthen both citizen security and institutional capabilities. He underlined the importance of intelligence sharing, coordinated enforcement measures and stronger cooperation among security agencies to address emerging threats.

Earlier, Shah welcomed participating delegations and said the historic gathering reflected the shared determination of BIMSTEC countries to confront terrorism, transnational organised crime, narcotics trafficking, radicalisation, human trafficking, illicit financial flows and cyber threats through decisive coordination.

BIMSTEC comprises Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal and Sri Lanka from South Asia, along with Myanmar and Thailand from South-East Asia. The grouping serves as a bridge between the two regions and promotes cooperation across a wide range of sectors, including security, connectivity, trade and economic development.

The BIMSTEC region is home to approximately 1.7 billion people, representing around 22 per cent of the global population. Collectively, the member states account for an economy valued at roughly ₹420 lakh crore ($5 trillion), highlighting the strategic and economic significance of deeper regional cooperation.

The first BIMSTEC Home Ministers' Meeting reflects a shared commitment among member nations to enhance regional security architecture and address threats that increasingly transcend national borders, with growing emphasis on coordinated action, institutional capacity building and long-term stability across the Bay of Bengal region.

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Nepal Home Minister Sudan Gurung Set For First Overseas Visit As New Delhi Hosts Landmark BIMSTEC Security Meeting

Nepal Home Minister Sudan Gurung is scheduled to travel to New Delhi next week to participate in the inaugural BIMSTEC Home Ministers' Meeting, marking his first overseas visit since assuming office.

According to officials familiar with the preparations, Gurung will depart Kathmandu on 12 October and attend the ministerial gathering on 13 October in the Indian capital.

The invitation was conveyed to Nepal through diplomatic channels last week, reflecting the growing importance being attached to regional security cooperation within the Bay of Bengal region.

The meeting will bring together Home Ministers from all seven BIMSTEC member states: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand.

Significantly, this will be the first-ever meeting of Home Ministers from the grouping since BIMSTEC was established in 1997, underscoring the organisation's increasing focus on security and internal affairs cooperation alongside its traditional economic and technical agenda.

Nepali officials have indicated that Gurung is also expected to hold discussions with his Indian counterpart on the sidelines of the event, providing an opportunity to review bilateral security cooperation and issues of mutual interest.

The ministerial meeting traces its origins to decisions taken during the Fourth BIMSTEC Summit in Kathmandu in 2018, when regional leaders agreed to institutionalise cooperation among interior and security agencies across member countries.

The summit had emphasised greater coordination between law-enforcement bodies, intelligence organisations and security institutions in response to evolving regional challenges.

Counter-terrorism collaboration and efforts to combat transnational crime are expected to remain central themes of the discussions, in line with previous BIMSTEC commitments.

Member states have also supported the continuation of meetings among national security chiefs to strengthen information-sharing mechanisms and improve collective responses to cross-border threats.

The New Delhi meeting is therefore expected to represent a significant step in advancing BIMSTEC's security architecture, while reinforcing cooperation among countries surrounding the Bay of Bengal on matters ranging from organised crime to regional stability.

For Nepal, the visit carries added diplomatic significance as Gurung embarks on his first foreign engagement as Home Minister while participating in a gathering designed to deepen security coordination among some of South Asia and Southeast Asia's most closely connected neighbours.

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India And Nepal Focus On Energy And Infrastructure At 81st UNGA High-Level Week

Development partnership and energy cooperation were the highlights of the discussion as External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Nepal's Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Sharing details of the meeting in a post on X, Jaishankar said that the two sides followed up on bilateral developments since their previous meeting in New Delhi in June, with particular attention to progress in development partnership and energy cooperation.

Pleased to meet FM Shisir Khanal of Nepal at the UN High Level Week, Jaishankar expressed, adding that they followed up on bilateral developments since their last meeting in Delhi in June this year, including progress in development partnership and energy cooperation.

The Permanent Mission of Nepal to the United Nations stated that Khanal expressed appreciation to India for its solidarity and immediate critical assistance following the recent catastrophic floods in Nepal's Bhotekoshi and Trishuli River basins last month.

Honourable Foreign Minister Mr. Shisir Khanal met with His Excellency Dr. S. Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs of India, on the sidelines of UNGA81 in New York today, the mission said in a post on X, noting that the Honourable Minister expressed sincere appreciation to the Government and people of India for their solidarity and immediate critical support, following the recent catastrophic floods in Nepal, while both Ministers exchanged views on various issues of mutual interest underscoring the need to further strengthen the close and longstanding ties between Nepal and India.

India's relief assistance to Nepal began on August 26, when the flood hit the Himalayan nation with the first relief aircraft arriving with 10 tons of supplies, including temporary shelters, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps and medicines.

India subsequently continued its relief efforts, with nine dedicated aircraft deployed from August 26 to transport relief inventory, equipment and specialist personnel to Nepal, where the ninth aircraft carrying 11 tons of relief supplies landed.

The Jaishankar-Khanal meeting took place as the External Affairs Minister continued a series of bilateral and multilateral engagements during the UNGA high-level week.

Earlier, Jaishankar met Uganda's Foreign Minister Adonia Ayebare, describing it as a cordial first meeting and discussing areas including development partnership, capacity building, defence training and agriculture.

A cordial first meeting with Uganda FM Adonia Ayebare was held where Jaishankar congratulated him on assuming this responsibility and agreed to cooperate closely to strengthen bilateral relations, focusing on development partnership, capacity building, defence training and agriculture, while appreciating close multilateral cooperation.

Jaishankar also chaired a High-Level Meeting of Like-Minded Global South Countries and Friends during UNGA81, where participants discussed challenges including rising conflicts and geopolitical tensions, pressure on supply chains and trade, fragmented investment flows, debt vulnerabilities, climate shocks and strains on the multilateral system.

In his remarks, Jaishankar called for greater cooperation among Global South countries, including on energy and food security, maritime safety, trade and economic practices, artificial intelligence and participation in global decision-making.

He also co-chaired the India-CELAC Foreign Ministers' Meeting with Uruguay's Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin, which was attended by 30 CELAC members, described by Jaishankar as the largest-ever participation.

According to Jaishankar, the India-CELAC meeting discussed cooperation in health and pharmaceuticals, food and agriculture, energy and resources, small and medium enterprises and digital sectors, besides expansion of ITEC slots for CELAC participants.

The participating countries also supported Indian-led initiatives, including the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, International Big Cat Alliance, Global Biofuels Alliance and Mission LIFE.

The meeting further agreed on an annual India-CELAC Ministerial, the establishment of a permanent Commission and an India-CELAC cooperation roadmap.

These engagements in New York come as India continues to pursue bilateral, regional and Global South cooperation on development, energy, economic, technological and environmental issues on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.

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Nirmala Sitharaman And Swarnim Wagle Strengthen India-Nepal Economic Ties Amid Post-Flood Reconstruction

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met Nepal’s Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle in New Delhi on Thursday to reaffirm India’s commitment to supporting Nepal’s post-flood recovery and reconstruction.

The meeting marked Wagle’s first official visit to India since assuming office, underscoring the importance of bilateral economic cooperation in the aftermath of Nepal’s devastating floods.

India’s Foreign Secretary and the Secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs also joined the discussions, which focused on the impact of the floods and Nepal’s priorities for rehabilitation. 

Sitharaman expressed condolences for the loss of lives and destruction caused by the calamity, assuring India’s continued support for Nepal’s rebuilding efforts. The Ministry of Finance highlighted that the dialogue centred on reconstruction and rehabilitation, while also addressing broader economic collaboration.

Dr Wagle conveyed his gratitude for India’s prompt assistance, including relief supplies and technical support for rescue operations. He emphasised Nepal’s appreciation for India’s role in providing humanitarian aid and expertise during the crisis.

Both ministers also discussed strengthening infrastructure and cross-border connectivity to deepen trade, investments, and people-to-people exchanges. The talks reaffirmed the importance of enhancing bilateral economic ties across multiple sectors.

Following the meeting, Charge d’Affaires Surendra Thapa hosted a dinner in honour of the visiting Nepali Finance Minister. During his interaction with Embassy officials, Wagle encouraged proactive efforts to strengthen Nepal-India economic relations. The Embassy of Nepal in India noted that Wagle exchanged views on bilateral engagement and urged diplomatic staff to continue advancing economic cooperation.

Ahead of his arrival in Delhi, Nepal’s Ministry of Finance outlined the purpose of Wagle’s three-day visit, which includes meetings with both Sitharaman and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. The ministry stated that post-disaster reconstruction and bilateral economic cooperation would be the main focus of the visit.

This marks the first high-level Nepali delegation to India since the floods of August 26, which killed 1,388 people and caused property damage worth approximately ₹39,690 crores across three districts. Updated figures indicate that the death toll has risen to 1,410, with 6,145 people still missing.

Rescue and relief operations continue jointly by Indian and Nepali teams, particularly at the Chilime hydropower tunnel where six individuals are believed to be trapped. Nearly three weeks after the disaster, rescue teams working round the clock are closer than ever to reaching those inside.

The ongoing operations highlight the scale of the tragedy and the urgency of coordinated efforts between the two nations.

India’s reaffirmation of support during Wagle’s visit signals a strong commitment to Nepal’s recovery, while also strengthening long-term economic ties. The meeting reflects the broader vision of enhancing regional cooperation and resilience in the face of natural disasters.

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₹2,077 Crores Chicken’s Neck Gets Backup: Alternate Route Along Nepal Border Approved

The Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has announced a major infrastructure boost worth ₹2,077.18 crore for the four‑laning of the 31.02‑kilometre Bagdogra–Panitanki–Kharibari–Galgalia section of NH‑327 in Darjeeling district, NDTV reported.

This project is strategically located along the Siliguri Corridor, also known as the “Chicken’s Neck,” and is expected to significantly strengthen connectivity to northeast India while improving access towards Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.

The project will involve the construction of three major bridges, one Road Over Bridge, five elephant underpasses, and service roads on both sides. These features are designed to ensure safer movement for both people and wildlife, while also enhancing logistics efficiency.

The four‑laning begins near Galgalia, a border town close to Bhadrapur in Nepal, and ends at Bagdogra, where the highway merges with NH‑27 near Bagdogra Airport.

Bagdogra Airport itself is undergoing a major transformation, with a new passenger terminal being built to handle 3,000 peak‑hour passengers. The terminal will include ten parking bays for A321/B737 type narrow‑body aircraft, multi‑level car parking, and will be designed as a Green Building utilising renewable energy. This will further enhance the airport’s role as a regional hub for connectivity and trade.

The upgraded NH‑327 will provide an alternative route to NH‑27 and will become part of the wider Asian Highway 2 network in Siliguri. This corridor forms a vital 38‑kilometre international economic route connecting the India–Nepal border at Panitanki to the India–Bangladesh border at Fulbari.

The project is expected to decongest Bagdogra, Naxalbari, Kharibari, and Panitanki, while improving connectivity to Bagdogra Airport and key regional centres. It will also enable faster movement of agricultural, horticultural, tea, and other local produce to larger markets.

Darjeeling MP Raju Bista welcomed the announcement, emphasising that the project goes beyond regional connectivity. He highlighted its role in strengthening the economic infrastructure of North Bengal, supporting the movement of essential goods, services, and people between eastern and north-eastern India. He also underlined its strategic importance in reinforcing India’s access to the Northeast and neighbouring countries.

India has been steadily boosting infrastructure in the Siliguri Corridor to secure this critical lifeline. Plans are underway for a 40‑kilometre underground rail corridor to ensure disruption‑proof connectivity to the Northeast.

This will involve laying underground railway tracks, expanding existing tracks to four lines, and creating additional capacity for uninterrupted passenger and freight movement. A high‑speed rail service is also being planned, with the Siliguri to Varanasi corridor under consideration.

These developments reflect India’s strategic priority to safeguard the Siliguri Corridor, ensuring resilient connectivity for both civilian and defence requirements.

The combination of highway expansion, airport modernisation, and underground rail planning underscores the government’s determination to secure this sensitive transit zone and strengthen regional integration.

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ISRO’s NISAR Radar Detected Major Himalayan Instability Before Nepal Avalanche Disaster

ISRO’s NISAR satellite mission has provided crucial evidence of significant ground deformation in the weeks preceding the deadly Nepal ice-rock avalanche.

The findings, based on Synthetic Aperture Radar data, revealed that the unstable Himalayan slope had already been undergoing substantial movement before the catastrophic collapse, Times Now reported.

Researchers employed SAR pixel-offset tracking to compare radar observations taken at different intervals. This analysis identified multiple metres of cumulative displacement concentrated around the precise source area of the avalanche. The ability to detect such concentrated deformation offers a vital example of how satellite-based monitoring can reveal early warning signs in hazardous mountain terrain.

The observations were shared by Zhejiang Liu, a PhD student at Chang’an University. His analysis highlighted that the deformation was not evenly distributed across the landscape. Instead, much of the movement was concentrated on the steep upper section of the slope.

This distinction is critical, as concentrated deformation often signals stress building within unstable terrain, which in this case preceded the eventual failure of the ice-rock mass.

It is important to note that not every slope displaying movement will necessarily collapse. Determining whether deformation represents an immediate threat requires repeated satellite observations, geological assessments, and, where possible, ground-based monitoring. Nevertheless, the NISAR findings underscore the immense potential of space-based radar in monitoring high-risk mountain slopes.

Unlike conventional optical imagery, Synthetic Aperture Radar can penetrate cloud cover and does not rely on daylight. This makes it particularly effective in the Himalayas, where persistent cloud cover and steep terrain often hinder conventional monitoring. SAR pixel-offset tracking works by comparing radar images taken at different times, measuring how identifiable features shift between observations, and estimating landscape movement.

In the Nepal case, the technique detected considerable cumulative movement around the eventual avalanche source. The concentration of this movement on the upper slope provided a valuable signal for scientists studying how unstable mountain systems evolve before failure.

The significance of these observations became tragically clear after the 2026 collapse triggered a destructive downstream flood disaster across parts of Nepal and Tibet. Once the massive ice and rock mass entered river valleys, the hazard expanded far beyond the original mountainside. Communities downstream were exposed to rapidly moving water, debris, and sediment, amplifying the scale of destruction.

This chain of events demonstrates why satellite-based monitoring is increasingly relevant to Himalayan disaster preparedness. A slope failure high in the mountains can quickly escalate into a much wider emergency, particularly when large quantities of ice, rock, and debris enter established river systems.

The NISAR mission, a joint collaboration between ISRO and NASA, continues to showcase the importance of advanced radar technology in disaster risk reduction.

By providing early signals of instability in remote and dangerous terrain, such missions can play a pivotal role in safeguarding vulnerable communities across the Himalayas.

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India Deploys Forensics And Tunnel Teams As 158 Nationals Rescued In Flood-Hit Nepal

India has evacuated 158 of its citizens from Nepal following the devastating floods that struck the Himalayan nation last week. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the figure late on Monday evening, noting that rescue and relief operations remain ongoing.

Specialised Indian teams have been deployed to support the mission. Forensics experts continued their work in Kathmandu in close coordination with Nepal Police’s Forensic Science Laboratory. They focused on optimising protocols and documentation to strengthen identification processes.

Ambassador Naveen Srivastava personally briefed the incoming specialists on Sunday. After the briefing, the experts held consultations with counterparts at the Central Forensic Science Laboratory in Kathmandu and with professionals from the Forensics Department of Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital.

Indian tunnel rescue teams also sustained their operations at Chilime and Langtang hydropower sites in partnership with the Nepali Army. Despite severe weather and difficult terrain at Chilime, the team managed to establish a foothold at the tunnel and set up safety ropes inside.

At Langtang, Indian and Nepali forces probed to a depth of 185 metres, marking significant progress in subterranean search operations. Ambassador Srivastava confirmed on X that these efforts will continue into Tuesday.

Indian subterranean extraction personnel had already been deployed on Sunday to conduct rigorous searches across hydropower infrastructure in Chilime and the wider Langtang sector. Their work remains critical in locating missing persons trapped within underground facilities.

Humanitarian assistance has also scaled up. A fourth Indian Air Force flight carrying 11 tons of relief supplies landed in Kathmandu on Sunday. The cargo was formally handed over to Nepali authorities as part of India’s continuing support.

This latest consignment included advanced search-and-rescue apparatus, molecular forensics experts for DNA profiling, and essential humanitarian items such as blankets, sleeping bags, heavy-duty tarpaulins, plastic sheeting, and hygiene kits.

India’s relief mission demonstrates a multi-pronged approach, combining technical expertise, humanitarian aid, and close coordination with Nepali counterparts. The deployment of forensics specialists and tunnel rescue teams underscores the complexity of the disaster response, while the humanitarian sorties highlight India’s commitment to supporting Nepal through both immediate relief and longer-term recovery.

The scale of operations reflects the seriousness of the floods, which have disrupted infrastructure and endangered lives across multiple districts. India’s assistance continues to play a pivotal role in stabilising conditions and reinforcing Nepal’s own emergency response capacity.

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Nepal Flash Floods Leave 675 Dead And Over 2,400 Missing As Rescue Operations Intensify

The death toll from the catastrophic Rasuwa Bhote Koshi flash floods in Nepal has climbed to 675, with emergency teams continuing to recover bodies and human remains across multiple downstream districts.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority confirmed that as of 6:30 PM, 2,418 individuals remain missing or out of contact following the deluge.

Chitwan district has recorded the highest fatalities, with 246 bodies retrieved. Nawalparasi East reported 165 deaths, Nawalparasi West 63, Gorkha 57, Nuwakot 51, Dhading 45, Tanahun 35, and Rasuwa 13. Medical teams have treated or discharged 219 injured survivors across the impacted regions.

The missing include 933 workers from underground hydropower projects, 589 foreign citizens, and 127 Nepalis travelling with foreign tourists. Additionally, 104 security and government officials remain unaccounted for, including 45 Nepal Army personnel, 27 Nepal Police officers, 15 Customs staff, 13 Armed Police Force members, and 4 Immigration personnel. Geographically, missing person reports are concentrated in Rasuwa with 562, Nuwakot with 115, Makwanpur with 65, and Langtang National Park with 3.

To manage the crisis, 18,708 security personnel have been deployed, comprising 8,135 Nepal Police, 6,370 Nepal Army, and 4,203 Armed Police Force members. Air and ground operations have rescued 7,514 people so far. Nepali Army and private helicopters have completed 261 sorties, airlifting 227 foreign nationals and rescuing 279 workers trapped in flooded hydropower tunnels over the past two days.

Restoration efforts are underway. Technicians have restored 145 out of 198 damaged telephone towers, and an automated flood monitoring station has been established at Galchi. Financial assistance has been distributed, with ₹1 crore each allocated to Rasuwa and Nuwakot, ₹50 lakh to Dhading, and ₹6.57 crore across 15 affected local palikas. Relief teams have dispatched 37 trucks and 7 helicopter flights carrying food and non-food supplies.

Fuel reserves include 36,000 litres of diesel, 24,000 litres of petrol, and 14,000 litres of aviation fuel in Nuwakot to sustain aerial rescue operations.

India has been closely monitoring the situation. Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh stated that the Indian Embassy in Nepal immediately activated a 24-hour helpline to coordinate relief efforts and identify those requiring assistance.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted that a specialised technical team from India conducted reconnaissance of hydropower tunnels to facilitate rescue operations. India has dispatched special flights carrying medical aid and essential supplies, continuing to send relief material.

Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal expressed gratitude for regional solidarity, noting that Nepal has received overwhelming aid from foreign nations, particularly India. He confirmed that India has already sent more than 57 tons of relief materials.

Essential items have also been received from China, Japan, Australia, and other partners. Khanal emphasised that as relief operations continue, further assessments will determine additional assistance required from neighbours and international partners.

This disaster underscores the vulnerability of Himalayan regions to sudden glacial and avalanche-related floods, which are becoming increasingly frequent due to climate change.

The scale of missing persons and fatalities has made this one of the deadliest disasters in Nepal’s modern history, with both national and international efforts focused on rescue, relief, and rebuilding.

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India Dispatches Fourth Aid Flight And Bailey Bridge Teams As 108 Nationals Rescued In Flood-Hit Nepal

India has intensified its relief operations in Nepal following the catastrophic Bhote Koshi River floods of 26 August. Both air and land support have been mobilised to assist in rescue and relief efforts.

Significant progress has been achieved in safeguarding stranded citizens. A total of 108 Indian nationals have been rescued from affected areas in Nepal.

Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed in a post on X that as of 22:30 hours on Saturday, 108 Indian nationals had been rescued.

He further stated that contact has been re-established with 40 Indian nationals. Local government sources confirmed that 598 Indian nationals have safely crossed into Nepal from China.

Jaiswal also informed that around 900 Indian nationals are currently waiting to depart China. They remain safe, with the Indian Embassy in Beijing maintaining active contact. Efforts are ongoing to trace 275 Indian nationals and 128 Persons of Indian Origin who are still reported missing.

In another post, Jaiswal shared the Indian Embassy in Nepal’s press release regarding the identification of mortal remains of victims of the flash flood. The release provided helpline numbers and an email ID for assistance.

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar announced that a fourth Indian Air Force flight carrying 11 tons of emergency assistance has been dispatched to Kathmandu.

He highlighted India’s infrastructure support, noting that 16 trucks carrying equipment for a 230-foot Single Lane Modular Steel Bridge have already reached Nepal. Equipment for seven additional Bailey bridges will be dispatched shortly, accompanied by technical teams for swift installation to restore land connectivity.

With the latest dispatch, India has airlifted a total of 68.5 tons of relief material to Kathmandu. Supplies include medicines, portable generator sets, food packets, water purification tablets, and heavy technical equipment.

Dr Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s solidarity, emphasising New Delhi’s commitment to stand by Nepal throughout the relief and reconstruction phase.

On the ground, Nepal’s state machinery is operating at maximum capacity to manage the aftermath of the devastating floods. Prime Minister Balen Shah declared that the Government of Nepal remains on high alert and will continue to operate at full capacity until every flood-affected citizen is safe and rehabilitated.

Combined search and rescue teams, technical units, and international aid are working around the clock to locate missing persons and restore essential infrastructure.

India’s latest mission underscores its readiness to combine logistical support, medical expertise, and technical rescue capabilities to bolster Nepal’s disaster response. The coordinated efforts highlight the scale of international solidarity in addressing one of Nepal’s most severe disasters since the 2015 earthquake.

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India Sends Specialised Tunnel Rescue Team With 11-Member Medical Support To Flood-Hit Nepal

India has intensified its relief operations in Nepal, sending a third flight with 10 tons of aid and deploying an 11-member specialised medical and tunnel rescue team. The mission marks a shift from supply delivery to complex rescue operations, as devastating floods have left nearly 600 dead and over 2,400 missing.

India’s latest assistance flight, operated by the Indian Air Force’s C-130 aircraft, carried medicines, food items, portable generator sets, dignity kits, food packets, and water purification tablets.

The supplies were formally handed over to Nepal’s Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, Mahabir Pun, by the Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar shared images of the consignment and confirmed that the 11-member medical and tunnel rescue team is now on the ground in Nepal.

The specialised team includes doctors, paramedics, and a reconnaissance unit tasked with assessing the requirements for a tunnel rescue operation at a hydroelectric project where workers are feared trapped. This marks a critical transition in India’s disaster response, moving beyond immediate relief supplies to high-risk search and rescue missions.

India’s relief operations began on 26 August with the first aircraft carrying 10 tons of temporary shelters, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps, and medicines.

A second aircraft followed on 27 August with 37.5 tons of tents, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps, dewatering pumps, kitchen sets, generators, medicines, and food items. With the third consignment, India has now dispatched a total of 57.5 tons of humanitarian assistance to Nepal.

The World Health Organisation has also scaled up its response, releasing $150,000 in immediate funding and deploying emergency health supplies sufficient for nearly 10,000 people for three months. WHO has provided tents, masks, gloves, and sanitiser, while coordinating with partners to restore disrupted health services and protect public health under Nepal’s leadership.

The floods, triggered by a glacial collapse near the Nepal-Tibet border, have devastated the Bhotekoshi River area in Rasuwa. Over 584 lives have been lost, with more than 2,400 people missing, including hydropower workers, trekkers, and pilgrims. Rescue teams have recovered hundreds of bodies, some swept downstream into India. Satellite images show widespread destruction of homes, roads, and hydropower projects.

India has offered Bailey bridges and associated technical teams to restore connectivity in flood-hit areas.

The Ministry of External Affairs has also proposed deploying National Disaster Response Force teams with specialised equipment to support Nepal’s search and rescue operations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured Nepalese Prime Minister Balendra Shah of all possible assistance, reinforcing India’s solidarity under the ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy.

Meanwhile, at least 320 Indians remain uncontactable in Nepal, though some groups of pilgrims have been rescued and returned safely. The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu has issued emergency helpline numbers to assist stranded nationals, while coordination continues with Nepalese authorities.

India’s latest mission underscores its readiness to combine logistical support, medical expertise, and technical rescue capabilities to bolster Nepal’s disaster response. With WHO and other international partners scaling up aid, sustained support will be critical as Nepal faces immense challenges in the aftermath of its deadliest disaster since the 2015 earthquake.

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India Sends Third Flight With 10 Tons of Aid To Flood-Hit Nepal, Total Assistance Reaches 57.5 Tons

India has dispatched a third consignment of humanitarian assistance to Nepal, further scaling up its relief operations in response to the devastating flash floods.

The latest flight carried 10 tons of supplies, taking the total aid delivered so far to 57.5 tons. This marks a significant expansion of India’s support for Kathmandu’s ongoing rescue and relief efforts.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar confirmed the mission in a post on X, noting that the consignment included portable generator sets, dignity kits, food packets, and water purification tablets. 

Importantly, the flight also carried an 11-member team comprising doctors, paramedics, and a reconnaissance unit tasked with assessing tunnel rescue operations at a hydroelectric project where people are feared trapped.

The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the departure of the third flight, which comes as Nepal continues to grapple with widespread destruction caused by flash floods originating near the Nepal-Tibet border. The floods have left hundreds dead or missing, with key roads and communication links severely disrupted.

India’s relief operations began on 26 August, when the first aircraft delivered 10 tons of supplies including temporary shelters, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps, and medicines. A second aircraft followed on 27 August, carrying 37.5 tons of tents, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps, dewatering pumps, kitchen sets, generators, medicines, and food items. With the latest dispatch, India has now sent a total of 57.5 tons of humanitarian assistance.

The third consignment is specifically designed to strengthen relief operations on the ground, combining emergency supplies with specialised medical and rescue capabilities.

The reconnaissance team will assess the tunnel rescue operation and determine the equipment required, while the medical team will provide immediate support to affected communities.

India has also offered Bailey bridges and associated technical teams to help restore connectivity in flood-hit areas. Jaishankar emphasised that India’s assistance is being tailored to Nepal’s requirements, with New Delhi ready to extend further support as needed. He stated that Nepal is evaluating the range of support offers and will select what is most appropriate for its needs.

The Ministry of External Affairs has additionally offered to dispatch National Disaster Response Force teams and equipment to assist Nepal’s search and rescue operations. This reflects India’s broader commitment under its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, ensuring rapid mobilisation of resources to aid regional partners during crises.

The flash floods in the Bhotekoshi River area of Rasuwa have caused catastrophic damage, sweeping away homes, infrastructure, and farmland. Communities remain cut off, and the scale of displacement continues to rise. India’s latest assistance underscores its readiness to combine logistical support, medical expertise, and technical capabilities to bolster Nepal’s response.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured Nepalese Prime Minister Balendra Shah of all possible assistance, reinforcing India’s solidarity with its neighbour during this humanitarian emergency. The relief corridor established by the Indian Air Force is expected to continue, with further consignments and specialised teams prepared for deployment.

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India Confirms Safety of 400 Citizens In China, Launches Evacuation As Nepal Flood Toll Rises

Contact has been established with around four hundred Indian citizens stranded on the Chinese side following the devastating flash floods in Nepal.

The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that all of them are safe, and the Indian Embassy in Beijing is arranging their safe evacuation despite landslides disrupting road connectivity.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated during a press briefing that the embassy is in direct contact with the stranded citizens, their travel agents and group leaders to coordinate their return to India.

He emphasised that telephone facilities are available, allowing the stranded individuals to speak with their families. Several family members have also reached out to the embassy through its helpline.

The embassy is currently making arrangements for the safe evacuation of these four hundred citizens. However, landslides have severely affected road connectivity, leaving several routes in poor condition. Jaiswal explained that once connectivity options open up, the stranded citizens will be able to return to India.

The MEA also provided updates on India’s humanitarian assistance to Nepal. The first aircraft carrying ten tons of relief material was dispatched on 26 August. This consignment included blankets, food items, medicines, solar lamps and other essential supplies.

A second aircraft followed on 27 August, carrying 37.5 tons of humanitarian assistance in response to requests from the Nepalese government. A third aircraft is scheduled to depart on Friday, carrying an estimated twelve to thirteen tons of humanitarian assistance.

Jaiswal reiterated that India is doing everything possible to ensure the safety of its citizens while simultaneously providing all requested assistance to Nepal. He highlighted that India’s relief efforts are being coordinated closely with Nepalese authorities to meet urgent needs on the ground.

The latest assistance and evacuation measures come as Nepal continues to grapple with the catastrophic flash flood in the Bhotekoshi River area of Rasuwa. The disaster has caused widespread destruction, with the Nepalese disaster management update reporting that 538 bodies have been recovered so far. Additionally, 977 people remain missing, and search, rescue and relief operations are ongoing across the affected districts.

The floods have devastated communities, destroyed infrastructure and left thousands displaced. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to locate survivors and provide relief. India’s rapid deployment of multiple consignments of humanitarian aid underscores its commitment to supporting Nepal during this crisis, while also ensuring the safety of its nationals stranded across the border.

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Nepal Floods Revive Fears of China’s Monstrous Brahmaputra Dam ‘Water Bomb’

Nepal’s deadly flash floods have reignited debate over China’s colossal Medog hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet, with experts warning that the mega-dam could act as a “water bomb” for downstream nations, News18 reported.

The disaster has underscored how fragile Himalayan terrain can unleash sudden cascades of water, ice, rock and debris, raising fears about the risks posed by such massive infrastructure in a seismically volatile region.

At least 165 people were killed in the floods along the Nepal-China border, with hundreds missing after torrents swept through communities, destroyed roads and bridges, and buried buildings under mud. Nepalese police confirmed 157 deaths, while China’s state broadcaster reported three deaths and 265 missing in Tibet’s Gyirong County.

The US Geological Survey initially recorded what seemed to be a magnitude 4.4 earthquake but later revised its assessment, identifying the event as a magnitude 5.2 glacial collapse. Satellite imagery and seismic data confirmed that the trigger was a glacier avalanche, which caused water levels in Nepal’s Trishuli River to rise by nine metres within half an hour.

The same region had suffered a similar disaster in August last year when a glacial lake overflowed in Tibet amid high temperatures, killing nine people and damaging critical infrastructure, including a bridge linking Nepal and China.

These repeated events highlight the vulnerability of Himalayan river systems to sudden glacial hazards, which climate experts say are intensifying as glaciers melt faster under warming conditions.

Strategic affairs expert Brahma Chellaney argued that the Nepal floods demonstrated how even moderate seismic activity in the Himalayas can produce cascading effects, warning that China’s Yarlung Tsangpo mega-dam is a “water bomb in the making.”

He cautioned that the project, located near the Indo-Tibetan border, could drown India’s northeast and wreak havoc downstream in Bangladesh if destabilised by seismic or climatic events. His warning has gained traction because the Nepal disaster illustrated how rapidly hazards can escalate in this region.

The Medog project is being built in southeastern Tibet, where the Yarlung Tsangpo makes a dramatic horseshoe bend and drops nearly 2,000 metres over 50 kilometres.

With an expected installed capacity of 60 gigawatts and annual generation of 300 billion kilowatt-hours, it would be three times larger than China’s Three Gorges Dam. Construction began in 2025, with reports describing it as a five-dam cascade costing around $170 billion.

The river becomes the Brahmaputra after entering India and flows into Bangladesh, meaning the project directly affects two downstream nations.

Concerns are not limited to the dam’s size. Chinese geologists have identified the Paizhen Fault beneath the project site, an active fault line since the Pleistocene. Researchers warned that seismic volatility could destabilise dams, roads, tunnels and reservoirs, urging engineers to strengthen slope stability and introduce retaining protections.

A 2026 report titled The Medog Imperative also highlighted the collision zone of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, warning of landslides and mudflows triggered by earthquakes. Even if the dam itself withstands seismic shocks, secondary geological events could pose grave dangers.

India and Bangladesh are watching closely. Both nations rely on the Brahmaputra for water and sediment flows, and India has raised concerns about downstream impacts.

Experts caution against overstating the dam’s control over the river, noting that much of its eventual volume comes from monsoon rainfall and tributaries south of the Himalayas.

China insists the project is a run-of-the-river system and denies plans to divert water away from downstream countries. Nonetheless, concerns remain over seismic risks, extreme weather, transparency and downstream effects.

The Nepal disaster has amplified calls to reassess how mega-projects are evaluated in the Himalayas, where earthquakes, landslides, glacial hazards and extreme rainfall converge with climate change. Experts note that warming is accelerating glacier melt, steep slopes are unstable, and river valleys are exposed to floods and landslides.

Against this backdrop, Chellaney’s “water bomb” warning has become a stark reminder of the potential consequences of placing the world’s largest hydropower project in one of the planet’s most volatile landscapes.

While the Nepal floods were not caused by the dam, they serve as a chilling example of how fragile Himalayan systems can unleash devastation without warning.

This unfolding debate ties together Himalayan climate fragility, seismic volatility, and the geopolitical anxieties of downstream nations. It highlights the urgent need for transparent risk assessments and regional cooperation before such colossal projects reshape the future of shared river systems.

Agencies

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India Dispatches Second Flight With 37.5 Tons of Aid To Support Flood-Hit Nepal

India has stepped up its disaster response to Nepal’s catastrophic flash floods by dispatching a second aircraft carrying thirty-seven and a half tons of humanitarian aid, medicines, and food supplies. The fresh delivery was executed on Thursday, following an earlier dispatch of ten tons of relief material on Wednesday.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar confirmed the mission in a post on X, stating that the second flight had taken off with thirty-seven and a half tons of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief material, medicines, and food packets. He emphasised that India remains in close and continuous touch with Nepalese authorities and will continue to strongly support the ongoing relief efforts.

On the ground in Kathmandu, Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava formally handed over the consignment to Nepal’s Minister of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Khadak Raj Paudel. The package includes critical provisions aimed at assisting populations affected by severe inundation and landslides.

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated India’s official stance, affirming that the country stands resolutely alongside Nepal and remains dedicated to furnishing all feasible backing. He underlined that India’s humanitarian outreach is consistent with the ‘Neighbourhood First’ doctrine, which highlights New Delhi’s practice of extending immediate relief to regional partners during times of crisis.

The calamity, triggered by intense monsoon precipitation, has inflicted heavy destruction upon public infrastructure, homes, and agricultural land. Thousands of households have been displaced across multiple provinces, while local agencies struggle to manage the immense crisis. Rescue and relief operations continue as authorities battle widespread devastation.

Indian Air Force personnel have detailed the operational logistics of these rapid missions. C-17 Globemaster Aircraft Commander L Nayak explained that the aircraft carried approximately thirty to forty tons of relief material, medical supplies, and National Disaster Response Force payloads.

He noted that the flight time was around one hour and fifteen minutes, departing at 9:30 AM and landing in Kathmandu at 10:45 AM. Adequate fuel was carried to hold in the air for up to one and a half hours if necessary, with two Indian airbases earmarked for diversion and refuelling in case of prolonged delays.

Air Commodore R Dobhal of Hindon Air Force Station elaborated on the initial dispatch, stating that a C-130J Hercules aircraft was readied immediately with relief materials, medicines, and generators.

The mission was accomplished with assistance from civil authorities and the NDRF, and the aircraft took off around 8:30 PM, landing in Nepal within two hours to deliver approximately ten tons of supplies.

He highlighted that the Indian Air Force frequently conducts relief operations both within India and in neighbouring countries such as Nepal, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka, and recently carried out an operation in Venezuela. He stressed that the force stands ready to assist anywhere in the world whenever required.

India’s rapid deployment underscores its unwavering commitment to supporting neighbouring nations during humanitarian emergencies. The scaling up of relief operations demonstrates both operational readiness and the enduring bonds of solidarity between India and Nepal.

ANI

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India Sends Ten Tons of Relief Material And Medicines To Support Nepal Amid Devastating Floods

India has dispatched ten tons of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief material along with essential medicines to Nepal, which is grappling with devastating floods. The aid was sent aboard a C130J aircraft of the Indian Air Force, carrying emergency supplies including temporary shelters, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps and medicines.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced the dispatch in a post on X, affirming that India stands with Nepal and its people in meeting this challenge. He expressed solidarity with the bereaved families and those affected, emphasising that India remains committed to supporting its neighbour during this crisis.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Nepal’s Prime Minister Balendra Shah and conveyed condolences over the loss of lives. He assured that India is ready to provide all possible humanitarian assistance and highlighted that teams from both countries are coordinating closely in rescue and relief operations. In his message, he reiterated that India stands firmly with its “sisters and brothers in Nepal” during this difficult time.

The Embassy of India in Beijing also issued a statement on X, noting that it is in close touch with local authorities to assist affected Indian nationals. It provided ground contact points and helpline numbers for those stranded in the Tibet Autonomous Region following flash floods in border areas. Indian nationals were advised to follow official advisories and reach out to embassy channels in Beijing and Kathmandu for assistance.

The United States Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs released urgent coordination channels for American citizens impacted by the Rasuwa flooding. It directed them to contact the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu and Nepal’s disaster hotline, while also encouraging enrolment in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for updated information and support.

Reports from The Kathmandu Post confirmed that at least seventy-two people have died and dozens remain missing after flash floods swept through Rasuwa and neighbouring districts. Several hundred people are reported missing, and the toll is expected to rise as search and rescue operations continue in the affected regions.

The floods have caused widespread devastation, displacing communities and damaging infrastructure. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to locate survivors and provide relief to those stranded. International assistance, including India’s rapid deployment of relief supplies, is playing a crucial role in supporting Nepal’s response to this disaster.

India’s swift action underscores its enduring commitment to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in the region. The dispatch of medicines, shelters and emergency supplies reflects the country’s readiness to stand by Nepal in times of crisis, reinforcing the deep bonds of friendship and solidarity between the two nations.

ANI

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