New Delhi, Nov 28: India has launched a major humanitarian relief effort to assist Sri Lanka as the island nation reels from one of its worst weather disasters in recent years. At least 56 people have been killed and 21 remain missing after torrential rains triggered floods and landslides, with Cyclone Ditwah pushing severe weather further along the eastern coast.
In a message on X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and announced India’s immediate assistance under a special humanitarian mission. “My heartfelt condolences to the people of Sri Lanka who have lost their loved ones due to Cyclone Ditwah. I pray for the safety, comfort and swift recovery of all affected families,” he wrote.
PM Modi said India had already dispatched vital relief materials and humanitarian assistance under Operation Sagar Bandhu, reaffirming New Delhi’s commitment to its neighbourhood. “In solidarity with our closest maritime neighbour, India has urgently dispatched relief materials and vital HADR support under Operation Sagar Bandhu. We stand ready to provide more aid and assistance as the situation evolves,” he said.
Reiterating India’s foreign policy approach, he added: “Guided by India’s Neighbourhood First policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, India continues to stand firmly with Sri Lanka in its hour of need.”
Operation Sagar Bandhu Begins
Confirming the launch of India’s relief mission, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar said on X: “Operation Sagar Bandhu commences. INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri hand over relief material at Colombo. Further steps are underway.”
The Indian Navy has deployed its two newest warships, the INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, and INS Udaygiri, an advanced frigate to Colombo. The vessels were already reaching Sri Lanka as part of the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2025, hosted to mark the 75th anniversary of the Sri Lanka Navy. Officials in Colombo warn that Sri Lanka could face more extreme weather in the coming days. With cyclones now striking regions rarely affected in the past, scientists say climate shifts across Southeast Asia may be accelerating. According to BBC reports, millions across the region risk displacement and economic disruption as weather systems intensify.
The visit by INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri marks their first overseas operational deployment. Their participation in IFR 2025 was originally scheduled as a diplomatic and strategic outreach event. However, the humanitarian mission has now taken centre stage. Defence officials say the deployment underlines India’s growing role in maritime security and regional disaster response. INS Vikrant, described by the government as “a symbol of national pride”, has become the most prominent Indian naval platform to participate in a community outreach and humanitarian relief operation in recent years.
With Operation Sagar Bandhu under way, India has signalled its readiness to scale up support. More aid missions and relief packages are expected depending on the severity of Cyclone Ditwah in the coming days. As Sri Lanka braces for worsening weather, India has reiterated it will remain by its side. PM Modi’s message reflects this stance: “India continues to stand firmly with Sri Lanka in its hour of need.”
