On January 29, 2020 the Indian navy launched operation Vanilla in the Southern Indian Ocean. The operation was launched based on the request received from Madagascar.

Madagascar has been hit by a cyclone and there has been heavy flooding and landslips since last week causing loss of lives and displacement of a number of people. According to the reports, more than 92,000 people have been affected.

The operation has been launched to assist the population of Madagascar. The Indian Navy ship Airavat has been deployed in the relief mission. The operation will provide succor to the flood affected population. The ship will also set up a medical camp and offer water, food and other essential relief materials.

According to the officials, the ship is carrying five pallets each of victualing, clothing and naval stores along with three pallets of medicines. It is expected to reach Madagascar by tomorrow 30^th January.

With the on board stores, the ship can provide clothing, emergency food, temporary shelters, medical assistance, carry out transportation and evacuation of personnel using four large and two medium sized boats, diving and communication assistance, officials stated.

Madagascar is an island country in the Indian Ocean. It is the fourth largest island in the world. India has been trying to include Madagascar and Comoros in its Indian Ocean Vision for their strategic location. On the other hand, Seychelles and Mauritius are part of Indian Ocean Region division.

All the four island Seychelles, Mauritius, Madagascar and Comoros are members of African Union and Indian Ocean Commission.

  disaster management