Russia's President Vladimir Putin has sent a telegram of condolences to the Indian Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, over the devastating earthquake that struck the countries of Southern Asia Saturday morning.

"I was deeply upset by reports on tragic aftermath of the powerful earthquake that took away numerous human lives in the state of Jammu and Kashmir," the telegram says.

"Please convey my condolences to the families and friends of the dead and the expressions of deep sympathy for all those affected by the calamity," Putin says.

Source: Agencies