India has rushed more than 27 tonnes of relief material to Sri Lanka as part of an accelerated humanitarian effort following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed that an additional Indian Air Force IL-76 aircraft touched down in Colombo on Saturday with critical supplies.
The latest consignment included 9 tonnes of relief material and two Urban Search & Rescue (USAR) teams comprising 80 trained NDRF personnel, equipped to conduct rescue and relief operations in flood-hit zones. India’s assistance has been delivered through both air and sea routes, with more shipments being prepared.
Sri Lanka requested urgent support after the cyclone triggered large-scale flooding, landslides, and infrastructure damage, particularly in the eastern provinces. Responding immediately, the Indian government activated a rapid deployment plan, mobilising NDRF teams from Hindon Air Base, which reached Colombo within hours.
So far, India has transported nearly 21 tonnes of essential supplies, including tents, blankets, mattresses, dignity kits, and other emergency items aimed at supporting displaced populations. Earlier this week, two additional NDRF teams—accompanied by four specialised search dogs—were flown in with advanced Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) equipment such as inflatable rescue boats, hydraulic cutters, medical kits, and satellite communication systems.
Under Operation Sagar Bandhu, the Indian Air Force deployed both C-130 and IL-76 aircraft overnight to deliver aid and personnel. The operation continues to scale up as Sri Lankan authorities battle severe humanitarian challenges caused by widespread inundation.
The relief supplies—comprising food rations, emergency stores, and rescue gear—are playing a crucial role in stabilising affected districts and supporting ongoing evacuation and recovery efforts.
Reaffirming New Delhi’s commitment to regional solidarity, the government stated that India “stands firmly with Sri Lanka in this hour of need.” Relief operations are expected to intensify further as more cargo flights and naval shipments prepare to depart for Colombo.
