India responds quickly for neighbouring countries in times of need says Union Minister Piyush Goyal

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal today said that India is the first responder for the Global South in times of need. Addressing the World Congress on Disaster Management in New Delhi, Mr Goyal stated that India is known for providing disaster management assistance to neighbouring countries in flood prevention, flood control, and  mitigating other disasters. Referring to the contribution of the armed forces in rescue and relief operations, Mr Goyal highlighted the sacrifices made by the Army, Navy, Air Force, and the Central and State Rapid Action Forces. He praised the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) for its efforts in disaster prevention and in reducing the magnitude of casualties in recent times. He also mentioned that the budget for disaster relief has been increased threefold in the last ten years. The minister also added that during COVID-19, India provided free vaccines to over 100 countries through the ‘Vaccine Maitri’ humanitarian initiative.