Agra
A foreign media delegation comprising 39 journalists from 13 countries visited the elite Shatrujeet Brigade of the Indian Army to gain first hand insights into its specialised Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) capabilities. The visit, held at the formation’s base in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, underscored India’s growing role as a reliable first responder in regional and global crises.
Keywords: Shatrujeet Brigade, Indian Army HADR, BHISHM Cube, Operation Amistad, Operation Sagar Bandhu
The journalists received detailed briefings on the Indian Army’s HADR operations conducted in friendly foreign countries. Particular emphasis was placed on the recently concluded Operation Amistad in earthquake-affected Venezuela and Operation Sagar Bandhu in cyclone-hit Sri Lanka. These missions illustrated the Army’s ability to mount rapid, self-contained responses that combine medical, engineering and logistical support under challenging conditions, reflecting India’s commitment to timely and compassionate assistance.
Delegates were shown a range of specialised HADR equipment, including the indigenous BHISHM Cube, a modular, rapidly deployable field medical unit capable of delivering critical care in austere environments. High-mobility all-terrain vehicles, advanced communication systems and other field gear were also demonstrated, highlighting the formation’s readiness for airborne insertion and sustained operations. Officials explained how self-sustaining medical nodes and swift mobilisation protocols enable the brigade to establish functional relief infrastructure within hours of arrival.
The Shatrujeet Brigade, the Indian Army’s premier airborne formation, maintains a high state of preparedness for both combat and humanitarian roles. The visit allowed international media representatives to observe the seamless integration of technology, training and operational doctrine that underpins India’s HADR posture.
By opening its specialised capabilities to global scrutiny, the Indian Army reinforced its dual mandate of national defence and international humanitarian partnership. The engagement forms part of a broader effort to enhance transparency and share best practices in disaster response with the international community.
contact: drrajeshjauhri@gmail.com
Dr Rajesh Jauhri is a Journalist with an experience of over 25 years in Indian and foreign media, a Social Scientist, an Ac-complished Author, a Political & Strategic Analyst, a Marksman (Rifle & Pistol), an Orator, a Thinker and an Educationist. He holds a Ph.D. degree on “Impact of colonial heritage on Indian police”. He runs an NGO dedicated to the social and eco-nomic uplift of tribal communities in MP and two decades back, he established a school in a village of Indore district, providing education and moral values to children belonging to underprivileged and minority families. Has received multiple awards in various fields.
