NEW DELHI: India has announced an immediate relief package of $500,000 to assist Vanuatu in the aftermath of a severe earthquake that caused widespread destruction and loss of life. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement on Thursday expressing solidarity with the Pacific nation and reaffirming India's commitment to humanitarian support.

India's Support for Vanuatu

As a close ally and partner under the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC), India extended heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Vanuatu for the devastation caused by the earthquake. "India stands ready to offer all feasible supports during this time,"the External-Affairs-Ministry said in report.

The financial aid is intended to contribute to Vanuatu's relief, rehabilitation, and reconstruction efforts. This gesture reflects India's broader commitment to Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and its proactive role in responding to crises in the Indo-Pacific region.

A History of Resilience

Vanuatu, located within the Pacific Ring of Fire, frequently faces significant natural disasters due to its geographical location. The country’s islands, primarily volcanic in origin, make it particularly vulnerable to earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and climate change impacts.

On December 17, 2024, a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck near Vanuatu's coast at a depth of 10 kilometers. The NCS - The National Centre for Seismology recorded the earthquake at 7.15am (Indian time) , with a Latitude 17.68 S and Longitude 168.03 E. The disaster caused significant structural damage and loss of life, leaving the country in urgent need of international assistance.

Vanuatu consistently ranks as the most at-risk nation on the United Nations' World Risk Index, a title it has held since the index's inception in 2011. Its limited capacity to respond to and recover from natural disasters underscores the importance of global cooperation in aiding vulnerable nations.

India’s Broader Commitment to Disaster Relief

India's aid to Vanuatu aligns with its Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative (IPOI), launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2019. The initiative prioritizes disaster risk reduction and management as a critical pillar of regional collaboration. Over the years, India has consistently demonstrated its commitment to supporting Pacific Island nations in times of need, reinforcing its role as a reliable partner in the Indo-Pacific.

Global Call for Solidarity

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) emphasizes the unique challenges faced by small island nations like Vanuatu. With limited resources to recover from disasters, such nations rely heavily on international aid and partnerships.

India’s swift response to Vanuatu's crisis exemplifies the spirit of global solidarity needed to address the vulnerabilities of nations most affected by natural calamities.