India prepares to send food and medical help to Afghanistan amid warnings that the Taliban-controlled country might suffer a catastrophic famine this winter.
According to the report, India is examining alternatives for transporting 50,000 metric tonnes (MT) of wheat and medical supplies to Afghanistan.
The aid might be sent to Afghanistan via the Attari-Wagah border. However, because Pakistan does not allow two-way commerce between India and Afghanistan over this border, this will require Pakistan's authorization.
According to the report, India is in contact with Pakistan to address the situation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has previously urged for "immediate and unrestricted" humanitarian aid to Afghans.
PM Modi said at the G20 summit on Afghanistan that the Afghan people have a strong bond with India and that every Indian understands the anguish of Afghans suffering from starvation and malnutrition.
Meanwhile, the United Nations World Food Program (WFP) has stated that it is in contact with India about donating wheat to Afghanistan.
"This discussion has been going on for a few weeks now. So maybe we can come to a satisfactory resolution and see another donations coming in because, as I previously stated, Afghanistan has a wheat shortfall of 2.5 million tonnes this year. So, we truly need all the assistance we can get "Mary-Ellen is a spokesperson and the Country Director of the World Food Program in Afghanistan.
Last year, India donated 75,000 metric tonnes of wheat to Afghanistan as a humanitarian aid.
The wheat had arrived at the port of Chabahar. India's humanitarian and economic assistance program includes food grain assistance.
