'For us, the entire world is one family': PM Modi lauds rescue team back from Turkey

PM Modi said that in the last few years, India has strengthened its identity not just as a self-sufficient but selfless country.

A total of three NDRF teams were sent to the quake-affected country on Feb 7 following PM Modi's directive to offer all possible assistance to that country.

Interacting with the rescue team deployed in quake-hit Turkey, PM Modi said: "The efforts of the entire team involved in rescue and relief measures during Operation Dost is exemplary."

"India's quick response during the earthquake has attracted attention of the whole world. It is a reflection of the preparedness of our rescue and relief teams," he said.

"Wherever we reach with the 'Tiranga', there is an assurance that now that the Indian teams have arrived, the situation will start getting better," the PM said.

He said India was one of the first responders when the earthquake hit Turkey and Syria.

"The better our own preparation, the better we will be able to serve the world," the PM added.

"We have to strengthen our identity as the world's best relief and rescue team," he added.

In a tweet, PM Modi said their efforts in disaster response and relief measures have been commendable.

Earlier in the day, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said the Indian Army's medical team deployed under 'Operation Dost' in Turkey has touched down in India.

The 99-member self-contained team successfully set up and ran a fully equipped 30-bedded Field Hospital in Iskenderun, Hatay, attending to nearly 4,000 patients round the clock, he said.