On 18th Sept 2011, the state of Sikkim was struck by a major earthquake. NDRF immediately planned and activated a search and rescue operation. Ten Teams consisting 403 NDRF rescuers from 08 Bn Greater Noida and 02 Bn Kolkata were airlifted to Sikkim. 14 search and rescue dogs accompanied the teams. The NDRF rescue teams braved the in-hospitable terrain, inclement weather and steep climbs to provide much needed relief to people in far flung hamlets of the state. NDRF provided free medical aid, extrication of victims, distribution of relief materials and helped in reconstruction of affected villages. NDRF distributed 200 arctic tents, medical aid worth Rs 2.5 lakhs and relief material worth lakhs of rupees to the people of worst affected areas. The services of NDRF teams were highly appreciated by the district administration and as the maxim says “the reward for good work is more work”, demanded more NDRF teams to speed up the relief operations.Subsequently five more teams were sent to the affected area who were continuing their efforts battling all odds.