Answer: India’s growing presence in the domain of humanitarian assistance coincides with its rise as an economic power over the last few decades and its inclination to assume a position of regional and global leadership. Recently, in 2022, India conducted an HADR Samanvay exercise with its ASEAN counterparts. 

Understanding HADR efforts’ contribution for India in improving its diplomatic relations 

• Taking lead during emergencies in its neighbourhood, India has earned the label of “first responder”.   
• Generating a positive image and reputation in the eyes of affected population and international communities, by providing effective and timely assistance. 
• Gaining enhanced regional influence by exhibiting leadership in disaster and non-traditional crises management. 
• Future prospects of economic and social activities like trade, investment, knowledge and cultural sharing are enhanced because of improved diplomatic ties. 

Under SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative, India is cooperating with neighbours to ensure economic growth & security in the region while tackling threats such as natural disasters. 

Examples of India’s successful HADR efforts

• India has provided HADR to countries in South Asia and Southeast Asia as well as Eastern and Southern Africa. 
• During 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, India provided extensive HADR assistance to Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia, strengthening India's diplomatic ties with these countries. 
• For example: Good diplomatic relations between India and Indonesia contributed to an increase in bilateral trade from US$ 6.9 billion in 2007 to US$ 21.01 billion in 2021. 
• Despite having uneven relationship with Turkey, India provided overwhelming assistance in different dimensions post 2023 Earthquake. 
• Support in terms of providing relief material, NDRF personnel with immense capabilities and accessories, has put India on a global leaders-list. 
• India emerged as the pharmacy of the world during the COVID pandemic, supplying medicines and vaccines, particularly to the Global South. 
• Also, food was distributed by naval ships in the Horn of Africa. 
• During Fukushima nuclear disaster 2011, NDRF’s independent and effective actions gathered respect and admiration from the local administration and the world. 
• Since then, India’s diplomatic ties with Japan strengthened effectively, evident from Japan’s minimal interest loans for bullet train project and Western Dedicated Freight Corridor Project.  
• Other HADR efforts of India include Operation Sahayta in 2018 in Madagascar and Mozambique, Coast Guard ships' pollution-control capabilities, etc. 

Way forward 

• Ensuring establishment of an international body for coordinating HADR efforts of different nations. 
• Increasing private sector participation to decrease cost of operation and induce innovation 
• Building strategic partnerships with neighbouring countries and regional organizations to enhance its HADR efforts. 
• Promoting capacity building and skill development of disaster management personnel and community volunteers 

Successful humanitarian aid and disaster relief efforts can significantly contribute to building diplomatic capital for a country. For India, enhancing its HADR capabilities, fostering regional cooperation and promoting capacity building can help bolster its diplomatic relations in the region and beyond.