New Delhi / Colombo: India has swiftly deployed humanitarian aid to Cyclone Ditwah-affected regions in Sri Lanka following an urgent request from Colombo. The cyclone caused widespread devastation across the island, prompting immediate action from New Delhi.
Late on Thursday night, the Indian Air Force (IAF) confirmed the activation of Operation Sagar Bandhu. As soon as the extent of the damage was assessed, a C-130 and an IL-76 aircraft were dispatched from Hindan Air Base during the night of 28–29 November 2025.
The mission carried:
- 21 tonnes of essential relief material
- Over 80 NDRF personnel
- 8 tonnes of specialised equipment
These supplies include critical rations and life-saving essentials to assist communities hit hardest by the cyclone. The rapid deployment aims to support Sri Lankan authorities in restoring normalcy and providing immediate humanitarian aid.
India’s swift response underscores its neighbourhood-first policy, with the government emphasizing that it “stands firmly with Sri Lanka in this hour of need” as rescue and relief operations continue across the cyclone-affected regions.
