Operation Dost: PM Modi Interacts With NDRF Team, Hails Their Heroic Efforts In Türkiye And Syria

Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel today, who were part of 'Operation Dost' in earthquake-affected Türkiye and Syria.

Here are some of the highlights from PM Modi's address:

• The Prime Minister exalted the virtues of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam", stating that the Indian team in Türkiye and Syria reflected the spirit of the entire world being one family.

• The speedy response of the NDRF team in Türkiye drew the attention of the entire world. It highlighted the preparedness and training skills of the team.

• The Prime Minister spoke passionately about the critical importance of quick response times during natural disasters, invoking the concept of the 'Golden Hour'.

• He hailed the NDRF team's rapid and efficient intervention in Türkiye, which had earned the admiration of the world.

• The Prime Minister recounted heartwarming stories of the team's compassionate and professional conduct during the relief and rescue operations. He recalled the image of a grateful mother who had blessed the members of the team for their heroic efforts.

• He emphasized the vital role of a human touch and an empathetic response in helping people cope with the trauma of losing everything.

• Reflecting on his own experiences as a volunteer during the devastating 2001 earthquake in Gujarat and the Machhu Dam tragedy in 1979, the Prime Minister expressed deep respect for the NDRF team's tireless dedication to their work. He commended them for their unwavering spirit and emotions, which had allowed them to persevere through the most difficult of circumstances.

• The Prime Minister emphasised the need to strengthen India’s capacity for relief and rescue in disasters to become the best relief and rescue team in the world.

• He said "Wherever we reach with the 'Tiranga', there is an assurance that now that the Indian teams have arrived, the situation will start getting better."

• From extending a helping hand during the earthquakes in Nepal, to lending aid during the crises in Maldives and Sri Lanka, India has always been at the forefront. PM Modi highlighted the increasing trust and admiration for the Indian forces and the NDRF, and how they are being looked upon as a beacon of hope during natural disasters.

• Those who have the capability to help others in their time of need are called selfless. This applies not only to individuals but to nations also. India was one of the first responders when the earthquake hit Türkiye and Syria. We have nurtured our selflessness along with our self-sufficiency.

• Training in the field hones our skills. As we strive to serve humanity, PM Modi said that the team gained valuable knowledge through the rescue operation amidst colossal calamities. This would further enhance their capabilities. He urged them to document their learnings and institutionalise them for the future.

• PM Modi highlighted that, for the first time, female members of the rescue team were deployed to carry out operations. This allowed for a safe and comfortable environment for women affected by the calamity to come forward and share their pain and concerns. The empathetic approach taken by the team helped to forge a deeper connection with the affected nations.

• PM Modi shared that he was in touch with the team for the last ten days, and felt connected with them.