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India has stepped up large-scale humanitarian and rescue operations in Sri Lanka following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah, which brought severe flooding, casualties, and widespread disruption across the island nation.
The Government of India, under Operation Sagar Bandhu, has deployed specialized teams, aircraft, naval assets, and substantial relief material to support ongoing emergency efforts. Those rescued included nationals from Sri Lanka, India, Germany, Slovenia, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Poland, Belarus, Iran, Australia, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
As part of the mission, Indian Air Force helicopters air-dropped essential supplies to remote jungle and hilly regions rendered inaccessible by the cyclone. Four severely injured individuals were also airlifted to safety for urgent medical care.
On December 2, Sri Lanka’s Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa met with India’s High Commissioner in Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, to convey his appreciation for India’s swift support. Premadasa praised India’s role as the region’s first responder and underscored the importance of strengthening bilateral ties.
Launched on November 28, Operation Sagar Bandhu has delivered a coordinated Search and Rescue and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) response in close collaboration with Sri Lankan authorities.
According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the Government of India immediately provided 9.5 tons of emergency rations through two Indian Navy ships in Colombo. Additionally, three Indian Air Force aircraft transported 31.5 tons of relief materials, including tents, tarpaulins, blankets, hygiene kits, ready-to-eat meals, medicines, surgical supplies, two BHISHM cubes, and a five-member medical team for on-site training. Special Urban Search and Rescue teams comprising 80 National Disaster Response Force personnel were also deployed.
Another 12 tons of relief supplies arrived onboard the Indian Navy Ship Sukanya, bringing the total quantity of assistance delivered to 53 tons.
In a joint effort with the Sri Lankan Air Force, Chetak helicopters from INS Vikrant and MI-17 helicopters of the Indian Air Force carried out extensive rescue operations. They airlifted stranded individuals, including pregnant women, infants, and critically injured people.
The MEA added that NDRF teams continue to conduct search-and-rescue operations across multiple flood-hit and isolated regions, assisting families and ensuring their safety. More than 150 people have been rescued so far, with operations ongoing.
Evacuation efforts for Indian nationals stranded due to the cyclone have also been underway. Special Indian Air Force flights, along with commercial services, have brought back more than 2,000 Indian citizens.
“Guided by India’s Neighborhood First policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, India continues to be the First Responder, standing firmly in solidarity with the Government and people of Sri Lanka in this time of need, and remains committed to supporting the on-going rescue, relief, and early recovery efforts,” the MEA stated.
A helpdesk is being set up at Bandaranaike International Airport, while stranded Indian nationals can continue reaching out through dedicated emergency helplines: +94 77 372 7832 (WhatsApp available); +94 77 122 9026 (WhatsApp available)
