Sri Lanka is currently grappling with a severe natural disaster. Cyclone Ditwah has wreaked havoc, killing 69 people so far and leaving more than 34 missing . Meanwhile, India has begun rapidly sending humanitarian aid to its neighboring country in response to its emergency needs.
On Saturday, an Indian Air Force C-130J Super Hercules aircraft arrived in Colombo, carrying approximately 12 tons of relief supplies . The supplies included tents, tarpaulins, blankets, hygiene kits, and ready-to-eat food. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated on X that “ Operation Sagar Bandhu has commenced and India is sending all possible resources to Sri Lanka to assist them.”
This was the second day that India sent relief supplies to Sri Lanka. Earlier on Friday, India had provided assistance to cyclone-affected areas. The Indian High Commissioner in Sri Lanka stated that India provided relief not only through the Air Force but also through naval ships.
Approximately 4.5 tonnes of dry rations , 2 tonnes of fresh food items , and other essential supplies were dispatched to Sri Lanka from INS Vikrant and INS Udayagiri . “India’s prompt dispatch of HADR assistance following the disaster has demonstrated its solidarity with Sri Lanka in this difficult time,” the Indian High Commission wrote.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his deep condolences for the loss of life caused by the storm. He said he prayed for the peace of the families of the deceased and for the speedy recovery of the injured. PM Modi also assured that India stands ready to provide further assistance if needed.
This move by India, under its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and ‘Vision SAGAR’(Security and Growth for All in the Region), once again proves that it is the first to stand for its maritime neighbours in times of crisis.
The situation in Sri Lanka due to Cyclone Ditwah is still challenging, in such a situation, India’s quick humanitarian assistance is playing an important role in accelerating the relief work there.