Govt launches national disaster helpline 1078

India today launched a national disaster helpline 1078 as it intensified relief and rescue operations in earthquake-hit Nepal by deploying more aircraft and military helicopters which have brought back over 5,400 people from the Himalayan nation.

Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar said the rescue operations have been stepped up despite "severe constraints" while noting that ministries concerned are working in tandem to provide all possible support to the survivors.

NDMA Member-Secretary R K Jain said the National Disaster helpline -- 1078 -- has been made operational to help people seek information about their near and dear ones.

"Anybody can use this number by dialing 011-1078 and whatever request we get will be shared with agencies concerned involved in the operation," he told reporters. The National Disaster Management Authority has also appointed a nodal officer to process requests for relief and rescue.

The Foreign Secretary said so far over 5,400 Indians including 30 foreign nationals have been evacuated including 2091 by the Indian Air Force.

Home Secretary L C Goyal said there have been 72 casualties reported from four states of Bihar (56), Uttar Pradesh (12), West Bengal (3) and Rajasthan (1).