Lauding the work of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel involved in ‘Operation Dost’ in earthquake-hit Turkey and Syria, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday asked them to strengthen their identity as the best relief and rescue team in the world. “The better our own preparation, the better we will be able to serve the world,” he said. “This is the first time we sent our women personnel, and their presence also builds trust in their women.” Three NDRF teams were sent on February 7 following Modi’s directive to offer all possible assistance to Turkey. The Army’s medical team was also deployed. Addressing the personnel who returned from Turkey, Modi said, “You have done a great service to humanity and made India proud. We consider the world as one family and see it our duty to quickly help any member in crisis.” He said India is always ready to be the first responder whenever there is a crisis in the world. “India has strengthened its identity in the last few years as a country of self-sufficiency, (and as a nation) which is selfless and helps other countries. We have to strengthen our identity as the world’s best relief and rescue team,” he said. Remembering the 2001 earthquake in Gujarat and recalling his time as a volunteer there, Modi underlined the difficulty of the task of removing rubble and finding people underneath. He also recalled the 1979 Machhu Dam tragedy in Gujarat. “On the basis of my experiences in these calamities, I can appreciate your hard work, spirit and emotions. Today I salute you all,” he said.
