India stands in solidarity with the Global South by strengthening humanitarian commitments

India has once again reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the Global South through its proactive humanitarian assistance. In two significant developments, the Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Sachet departed for Djibouti carrying critical medical aid, while a separate consignment of disaster relief materials was dispatched to Honduras in response to Tropical Storm Sara

In a powerful gesture of support, ICGS Sachet set sail for Djibouti on Friday (February 28, 2025), carrying essential medical aid aimed at bolstering the country's healthcare capabilities. 

The shipment includes 20 haemodialysis machines and one Reverse Osmosis (RO) plant, which will play a crucial role in improving Djibouti’s medical infrastructure. Given the rising prevalence of kidney-related ailments in the region, the haemodialysis machines will provide life-saving treatment, while the RO plant will ensure access to clean and safe water—an essential element in medical care and public health.

This initiative reflects India's Neighbourhood First and Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The World is One Family) approach, emphasizing its commitment to fostering international cooperation in critical sectors such as healthcare. The assistance to Djibouti is part of India’s broader strategy of strengthening ties with African nations by offering both immediate and long-term support to enhance their healthcare resilience.

Simultaneously, India has extended a helping hand to Honduras, a Latin American nation recently devastated by Tropical Storm Sara. In a swift and decisive response, India dispatched a 26-ton consignment of medical supplies and disaster relief materials to aid the affected communities. The shipment includes surgical supplies, glucometers, oximeters, gloves, syringes, IV fluids, blankets, sleeping mats, and hygiene kits, ensuring that those impacted receive essential medical and living support.

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, highlighted India’s unwavering dedication to humanitarian aid, stating that India remains a “reliable partner for the Global South” in times of crisis. This mission follows India’s longstanding tradition of offering timely assistance to countries grappling with natural disasters and public health emergencies.

India’s recent aid to Djibouti and Honduras is part of a larger humanitarian footprint that spans multiple continents. Over the past year, India has responded proactively to crises in Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands, strengthening its global partnerships through assistance programs.

Aid to São Tomé and Príncipe (January 2025): India provided life-saving medicines, including insulin, blood glucose monitors, human albumin, and oral rehydration salts (ORS), to support the African nation’s public health services.

Support for Vanuatu (January 2025): A financial aid package of USD 500,000 was extended to assist in relief, rehabilitation, and reconstruction efforts following a devastating earthquake in the South Pacific region.

Food Security Assistance to Lesotho (December 2024): India dispatched 1,000 metric tonnes of rice to address the food crisis in the landlocked African country, continuing its tradition of combating famine and malnutrition.

Drought Relief for Zambia, Malawi, and Zimbabwe (September 2024): In response to severe drought conditions caused by the El Niño phenomenon, India provided essential food and humanitarian aid to mitigate the impact on vulnerable populations.

Operation Sadbhav (September 2024): India launched a comprehensive humanitarian initiative to support Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam in the aftermath of Typhoon Yagi, offering immediate relief supplies to the affected communities.

India's extensive humanitarian outreach showcases its growing role as a global first responder in disaster relief efforts. By consistently extending aid to countries in distress, India has positioned itself as a dependable and compassionate partner in the Global South.

This proactive approach not only strengthens diplomatic relations but also upholds India's moral responsibility in global governance. As the world grapples with climate-induced disasters, food shortages, and public health crises, India's humanitarian assistance programs stand as a testament to its vision of a more equitable and resilient international community.

By prioritizing aid to regions in need, India reinforces its stance as a nation that stands in solidarity with the Global South—not just in words but in meaningful, tangible action.