New Delhi, December 9, 2025 — India has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to assisting Sri Lanka in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) describing the ongoing Operation Sagar Bandhu as a testament to the deep emotional bonds between the peoples of the two countries. Since the cyclone wreaked havoc across the island nation, causing devastating floods, landslides, and loss of life, India has moved swiftly to provide humanitarian relief, early recovery, and reconstruction support.

Rapid Deployment of Critical Infrastructure

Between December 3 and December 9, the Indian Air Force airlifted four modular Bailey bridge systems along with specialised teams from the Indian Army Engineers to Sri Lanka using four C-17 Globemaster aircraft. These rapidly-installable bridge structures are designed to restore critical connectivity links, enabling easier access to flood- and landslide-affected areas and facilitating the timely provision of relief. The MEA highlighted that these interventions are aimed at both immediate relief and the groundwork for long-term recovery in isolated and inaccessible regions.

India’s Immediate Response

Operation Sagar Bandhu was launched on November 28 as a “first responder” initiative, reflecting India’s Neighbourhood First policy and its broader vision under the MAHASAGAR framework — Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions. India’s response combined rapid deployment of specialized search-and-rescue units, medical teams, and engineering support with the delivery of essential relief materials, aiming to reach the hardest-hit areas within hours of the cyclone’s impact.

According to the MEA, over 450 individuals have been rescued and assisted by Indian teams since the onset of the disaster. In addition, the Aarogya Maitri team operated modular BHISHM Cubes — portable medical units — providing urgent care and conducting on-site training for Sri Lankan Air Force medical officers, thereby enabling the deployment of additional units to other affected areas.

Indian Army Field Hospital and Medical Support

A fully-equipped Indian Army field hospital was established at Mahiyanganaya in Badulla district. As of December 8, the hospital had treated 3,388 patients, including performing surgeries, and continues to provide medical services. The hospital was transported via an IAF C-17 Globemaster, bringing with it ambulances, trauma care units, operation theatres, and a team of 73 medical professionals. In addition, 500 mobile water purification units were dispatched to provide safe drinking water in affected regions.

Extensive Relief Material Delivered

India’s relief efforts have been extensive and multi-modal. Within the first three days of Cyclone Ditwah, 53 tonnes of emergency relief material, including tents, tarpaulins, blankets, and hygiene kits, were delivered. High-priority medical Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) supplies, including two BHISHM modular trauma cubes and over four tonnes of essential medicines, were dispatched alongside two specialized Urban Search and Rescue teams from India’s National Disaster Response Force.

The Indian Navy has also played a key role in delivering relief supplies. On November 28, 9.5 tonnes of emergency dry rations were handed over to Sri Lankan authorities in Colombo via INS Vikrant and INS Udayagiri. Between November 29 and 30, three Indian Air Force aircraft — two C130Js and one IL-76 — transported an additional 31.5 tonnes of essential supplies. A sealift facilitated by the Indian Navy on December 6 carried 997 tonnes of dry rations and other relief materials from Tamil Nadu to Sri Lanka, including 352 tonnes aboard INS L51, INS L54, and INS L57, and 645 tonnes on INS Gharial.

A Testament to Bilateral Ties

The MEA emphasized that Operation Sagar Bandhu not only provides immediate relief but also underscores the enduring partnership and trust between India and Sri Lanka. Through rapid response, expert deployment, and comprehensive humanitarian support, India has sought to ensure early recovery, rehabilitation, and reconstruction in affected areas while reinforcing its commitment to its neighbors.

“Operation Sagar Bandhu stands as a testament to the deep emotional bonds between the peoples and the trusted partnership between the governments of India and Sri Lanka,” the MEA said, noting that India will continue to coordinate with Sri Lankan authorities in ensuring that recovery and reconstruction proceed efficiently and inclusively.

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