Dhaka, May 9 (UNI) India has handed over the second consignment of relief goods to Bangladesh to help the nation in confronting the humanitarian crisis caused by the influx of Rohingyas from Rakhine state of Myanmar.
Indian High Commissioner Harsh Vardhan Shringla handed over the consignment to Disaster Management and Relief Minister Mofazzel Hussain Chowdhury Maya on Wednesday in Chattogram, officials here said.
The 373 tonnes of relief consignment include-104 tonnes of milk powder, 102 tonnes of dried fish, 61 tonnes of baby food, 50,000 raincoats and 50,000 pairs of gumboots.
INS Airavat, the latest ship that has brought the relief consignment, sailed from Vishakhapatnam and reached Chattogram port on Tuesday with Commander A Ashok leading it.
The Indian High Commissioner said another tranche of relief having one million litres of kerosene oil and 20,000 stoves is expected to arrive soon.
Last month India’s Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said the provisions have been selected considering the specific needs of the large number of Rohingya women and children living in the camps and the risks from upcoming monsoon.
"We hope the relief goods will bring succor to the people living in camps," Shringla said.
The Indian High Commissioner said that the Indian officials here are also coordinating with the district administration for smooth distribution of the relief material.
"India has always stood by Bangladesh in times of need. Ours is a relationship based on trust, friendship and shared martyrdom that goes beyond strategic partnership," the Indian High Commissioner said.
Mr Shringla also said India has always responded readily and swiftly to any crisis in Bangladesh.
Earlier in September last year, India sent 981 tonnes of relief under its ‘Operation Insaniyat’ for displaced people of Myanmar in Bangladesh.
'Bangladesh is playing a commendable role by extending humanitarian assistance that deserves both recognition and support by the international community, " Mr Shringla added.
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