External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke with Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi on Monday following a powerful earthquake in Afghanistan that has claimed over 800 lives.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Jaishankar expressed deep condolences for those who lost their lives and outlined India’s immediate relief efforts. “Conveyed that India has delivered 1,000 family tents today in Kabul. Fifteen tonnes of food material is also being immediately moved by Indian Mission from Kabul to Kunar. Further relief material will be sent from India starting tomorrow,” he wrote.
Spoke with Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi today. Expressed our condolences at the loss of lives in the earthquake.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 1, 2025
Conveyed that India has delivered 1000 family tents today in Kabul. 15 tonnes of food material is also being immediately moved by Indian Mission… pic.twitter.com/whO2iTBjS8
Jaishankar also wished a speedy recovery to those injured and reaffirmed India’s commitment to support Afghanistan during this challenging time.
Massive Quake Strikes Eastern Afghanistan
The Taliban authorities confirmed that a large-scale rescue operation is underway after a 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck just before midnight. The quake collapsed homes as families slept, with multiple aftershocks continuing through the night. Tremors were felt across a wide region, stretching from Kabul to Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad.
Widespread Impact and Aftershocks
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), over 1.2 million people likely experienced strong or very strong shaking. At least five aftershocks followed the main quake. Casualties and damage have been reported across at least five provinces, and emergency teams are racing to reach the worst-affected areas.
India Ramps Up Relief Efforts
India has quickly responded to the disaster by sending tents, food, and other relief material. Further aid shipments are scheduled to begin from India the following day, highlighting India’s commitment to support Afghanistan during this crisis.