Colombo

Under Operation Sagar Bandhu, India is providing urgent humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka in the wake of Cyclone Ditwah.

The Indian High Commission announced the deployment of a field hospital with 70 personnel to disaster-affected areas, while NDRF teams continue rescue operations despite severe accessibility challenges. Teams have assisted injured citizens, including a visually challenged senior and recovered deceased victims from debris.

The Indian Navy, through INS Vikrant, INS Udaygiri, and INS Sukanya, has delivered relief supplies, conducted aerial reconnaissance, and supported ongoing search-and-rescue operations.

Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to India, Mahishini Colonne, lauded India as the first responder, citing its timely support during previous crises, including the tsunami and economic challenges. She noted that over 400 people lost their lives in the cyclone and expressed confidence that India-Sri Lanka cooperation would continue to strengthen.

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The swift humanitarian response reflects India’s Neighbourhood First policy and MAHASAGAR vision, highlighting its role as a regional first responder and provider of assistance in times of crisis.