New Delhi – In a swift humanitarian response to the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has deployed two transport aircraft, a C-130J Super Hercules and an IL-76, carrying relief materials and paramilitary personnel under Operation Sagar Bandhu. This initiative underscores India’s commitment to its neighborhood and its readiness to extend immediate disaster assistance to neighboring countries in crisis.

Cyclone Ditwah, which battered Sri Lanka in late November 2025, has left widespread destruction across the country, resulting in the deaths of over 50 people, while more than 43,900 individuals from 12,313 families have been affected by floods, landslides, and heavy rainfall. In response, India launched Operation Sagar Bandhu to ensure timely delivery of critical relief materials, equipment, and search-and-rescue teams to the hardest-hit areas.

IAF Mobilization and Relief Efforts

The IAF’s rapid deployment involved flying the two aircraft from Hindan Air Base to Colombo during the night of November 28-29. The IL-76 and C-130 carried a combined total of 21 tonnes of relief materials, along with over 80 personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and eight tonnes of specialized equipment for disaster response operations.

The supplies airlifted include essential rations, tents, tarpaulins, blankets, hygiene kits, and other critical items designed to support the immediate needs of communities displaced or impacted by the cyclone. The IAF emphasized that this deployment reflects the “Neighbourhood First” policy, demonstrating India’s solidarity with Sri Lanka in its hour of need.

Role of the National Disaster Response Force

The NDRF teams deployed as part of the operation are specially trained for urban search-and-rescue, flood relief, and disaster management. Equipped with inflatable boats, hydraulic cutting and breaching tools, first-aid kits, and advanced communication equipment, the teams are capable of conducting large-scale rescue operations in flood-affected and landslide-prone areas.

Under Operation Sagar Bandhu, two urban search-and-rescue teams comprising 80 NDRF personnel were deployed alongside the airlifted relief materials. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted that a total of around 27 tonnes of relief materials had already been delivered to Sri Lanka via air and sea, and additional consignments are en route.

Naval Support Complementing Air Relief

In addition to the IAF’s airlift, the Indian Navy has played a pivotal role in delivering relief materials to affected communities. The INS Vikrant, India’s aircraft carrier, and the frontline ship INS Udaigiri were used to transport the first tranche of essential supplies, including rations and medical kits. This coordinated air-sea relief effort demonstrates India’s multi-dimensional approach to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

Cyclone Ditwah’s Impact on Sri Lanka

Cyclone Ditwah, which intensified over the southwest Bay of Bengal and moved over coastal Sri Lanka, triggered torrential rains, strong winds, flooding, and landslides. The Sri Lankan Disaster Management Centre (DMC) reported that tens of thousands of people were displaced, with thousands more facing damage to homes, roads, and essential infrastructure. Entire villages were inundated, and critical road networks were rendered impassable, making immediate relief operations essential.

The IAF and NDRF teams have been tasked with reaching the most affected areas to provide relief, carry out rescue operations, and support the local authorities in disaster mitigation efforts. The Indian High Commission in Colombo has also established an emergency help desk at Bandaranaike International Airport to assist Indian nationals stranded due to the cyclone and to facilitate the coordination of relief activities.

International Humanitarian Assistance and India’s Role

Operation Sagar Bandhu highlights India’s established role as a first responder to natural disasters in the Indian Ocean region. By rapidly deploying aircraft, personnel, and relief materials, India has demonstrated the importance of proactive regional assistance during humanitarian crises. The coordinated response showcases India’s strategic reach, logistical capacity, and commitment to providing timely aid to countries facing natural disasters.

The relief operation also reflects the broader strategy of building strong bilateral relations through humanitarian support. It is a reminder of India’s longstanding policy to assist neighboring countries in times of need, reinforcing regional solidarity and trust.

Next Steps in Relief Operations

The IAF and NDRF teams continue to monitor the situation and coordinate with Sri Lankan authorities to prioritize relief delivery to areas most severely affected. Additional consignments of relief materials are being prepared for air and sea transport to ensure that all affected communities receive timely assistance.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reiterated India’s support in a social media post, stating, “A total of around 27 tons of relief material delivered by air and sea. More is on the way! Operation Sagar Bandhu continues… India stands firmly with Sri Lanka.”

District and local authorities in Sri Lanka are working alongside the Indian teams to facilitate distribution of rations, medical aid, and shelter materials. NDRF personnel are also involved in restoring critical access points, ensuring safe movement of supplies, and assisting local rescue operations in flood and landslide-affected areas.

Conclusion

Operation Sagar Bandhu represents India’s swift, coordinated, and compassionate response to a major natural disaster in a neighboring country. By deploying the IAF’s C-130 and IL-76 aircraft along with highly trained NDRF personnel, India has provided immediate relief to thousands of Sri Lankans affected by Cyclone Ditwah.

This operation exemplifies India’s commitment to regional stability, humanitarian assistance, and disaster preparedness. It not only addresses immediate needs but also strengthens India-Sri Lanka ties, reinforcing the ethos of regional cooperation and the principle of helping neighbors in distress.

As relief efforts continue, the focus remains on ensuring that affected families receive essential supplies, medical assistance, and safe shelter, demonstrating that in times of crisis, prompt action and coordinated support can make a decisive difference in saving lives and alleviating human suffering.