New Delhi

India has stepped up its humanitarian mission in cyclone-ravaged Sri Lanka, with the Indian Air Force deploying two transport aircraft under Operation Sagar Bandhu to deliver relief supplies and specialised rescue teams.

The IAF flew a C-130 and an IL-76 aircraft from Hindan Air Base late on the night of November 28–29, carrying 21 tonnes of relief material, over 80 National Disaster Response Force personnel and nearly 8 tonnes of rescue equipment to Colombo. The deployment is part of India’s rapid assistance programme following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah, which has triggered massive floods and landslides across Sri Lanka.

According to the Indian Air Force, the consignments include essential rations, critical supplies and equipment for urban search and rescue operations to support severely affected communities.

Reaffirming India’s policy of “Neighbourhood First,” the IAF said the country stands in solidarity with Sri Lanka during its ongoing crisis.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also shared an update on the relief operation, confirming that another IAF IL-76 aircraft landed in Colombo with 9 tonnes of additional supplies and two NDRF urban rescue teams. He noted that nearly 27 tonnes of aid have already been sent by air and sea, adding that further consignments are on the way.

Earlier, the initial batch of humanitarian aid reached Sri Lanka via the Indian Navy’s aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and frontline warship INS Udaigiri.

Sri Lankan authorities report that over 50 people have lost their lives in the disaster, while more than 43,900 people from over 12,000 families have been affected by the extreme weather.

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With operations continuing, India has indicated that its support to Sri Lanka will remain steadfast until the situation stabilises.