India sends relief to typhoon-hit Philippines

Expressing condolence with Philippines over the death and destruction wrecked by Typhoon Haiyan, India on Tuesday said it would be sending relief supplies to help those affected by the catastrophe. Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh conveyed his condolences to Philippines President Benigno Aquino and said his country is ready to provide all help in the relief and rehabilitation efforts. "I write to convey to you the deepest condolences of the people of India on the catastrophe caused by Typhoon Haiyan," reads a statement by the Indian prime minister. "The scale and severity of the death and destruction caused by the typhoon has saddened and shocked us. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and the people of the Philippines in this extraordinary moment of grief," according to the statement. Singh said he has full faith in the resilience and resolve of the people of Philippines to quickly rebound from their losses and in the capacity of your government to provide immediate relief to the affected communities and rebuild their lives. As a measure of support, India proposes to send immediate relief supplies to the Philippines to help those affected by the typhoon. An aircraft with 15 tonnes of relief supplies will depart for the Philippines tonight, Indian foreign ministry stated, adding, the material will consist of medicines and hygiene chemicals; fresh water and water purification material; tents, blankets, mattresses, tarpaulin and ground sheet for shelter; pre cooked meals, biscuits and milk powder; such that the affected persons can be provided immediately relief in terms of medical treatment, shelter and food.