Members of the Indian community in Kingston have assisted in recovery efforts in St. Elizabeth Parish following the destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa, the High Commission of India said on Saturday.
The community raised more than $3.2 million to provide immediate relief and delivered 550 care packages, stoves, clothing, hygiene kits, and other essentials to households in St. Elizabeth, Westmoreland, and Black River.
“India stands in solidarity with Jamaica for relief, recovery, and reconstruction efforts. The compassion and solidarity shown by the Indian community reflect the Indian philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ — the world is one family,” the High Commission posted on X.
The relief mission was led by Gul Mansukhani and joined by Indian High Commissioner to Jamaica Mayank Joshi and Jamaican Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining Floyd Green.
Last week, India delivered 20 tonnes of humanitarian aid and disaster relief materials, including the BHISHM (Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita, and Maitri) modular medical trauma unit, tents, bedding, kitchen kits, generators, solar lanterns, and hygiene supplies. The shipment arrived in Kingston aboard a C-17 aircraft of the Indian Air Force and was handed over to the Jamaican government.
The BHISHM trauma kit, developed in India, comprises 72 modular medical and surgical boxes and is designed to provide first-line emergency medical support in field conditions.
“India is committed to assisting Jamaica and partners in the Global South in times of need,” the High Commission said.