India's Operation Sagar Bandhu: Providing Critical Relief to Sri Lanka After Cyclone Ditwah Devastation

An Indian Air Force C-130 J aircraft landed in Colombo to provide humanitarian assistance.

Sri Lanka is currently experiencing one of its most devastating flood disasters in recent decades following Cyclone Ditwah. The catastrophic flooding and landslides have resulted in over 400 people being reported dead or missing. As the island nation struggles to cope with this calamity, India has stepped forward by launching Operation Sagar Bandhu, deploying specialized troops from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Indian Air Force to conduct search, rescue, and relief operations.

The swift Indian response has been widely acknowledged by Sri Lankan citizens. One resident from Colombo shared a heartfelt message on social media that quickly went viral, expressing profound gratitude to India and its military personnel for their timely intervention during this crisis.

"As a Sri Lankan, I just wanted to take a moment to thank India, which has come forward to assist Sri Lanka not only with essential supplies but also with helicopters for rescue operations," the user wrote in a Reddit post that garnered significant attention.

"Your soldiers are performing vital humanitarian work in cyclone-affected areas across Sri Lanka. Thank you, dear friend."

Cyclone Ditwah made landfall on November 28 before moving back over the Bay of Bengal. Several districts have been severely impacted, including Gampaha, Colombo, Puttalam, and Mannar, as well as Trincomalee and Batticaloa. Additionally, deadly landslides have caused extensive devastation in Kandy, Badulla, and Matale regions.

The viral social media post expressing gratitude quickly attracted numerous responses from Indian citizens who emphasized their nation's commitment to supporting neighboring countries during times of distress.

"Welcome from India. Sri Lanka holds significant importance as both a neighbor and strategic partner for India. Our country remains prepared to provide humanitarian assistance to nations in need, regardless of their political stance toward India," commented one user.

Another added: "Hello there... I just want to extend a heartfelt welcome."

"I hope conditions improve soon and everyone affected receives relief from the cyclone's destruction. Sending best wishes to all of you. Please stay safe," wrote a third commenter.

A fourth response highlighted: "No need for thanks. Just decades ago, our country depended on others even for basic food supplies. The world evolves. We should support those in need, whether individuals or nations."

As part of Operation Sagar Bandhu, India has mobilized resources to deliver emergency assistance to countries in the Indian Ocean region affected by natural disasters. The Indian Navy is providing food, essential supplies, and logistical support to help neighboring nations manage these immediate crises.

The initial aid shipment included 4.5 tonnes of dry rations and 2 tonnes of fresh rations, sourced from the Indian naval vessels INS Vikrant and INS Udayagiri currently stationed in Sri Lanka. On November 29, an Indian Air Force aircraft delivered approximately 12 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Colombo, including tents, tarpaulins, blankets, hygiene kits, and ready-to-eat food items.