Operation Sagar Bandhu: India Delivers Emergency Cyclone Aid to Sri Lanka

India Launches Operation Sagar Bandhu to Assist Flood-Hit Sri Lanka

India has activated Operation Sagar Bandhu , a large-scale humanitarian mission to support Sri Lanka after Cyclone Ditwah triggered catastrophic flooding, landslides and mass displacement across multiple provinces. With rising casualties and critical infrastructure damage, India has rushed relief supplies by air and sea under its established disaster-assistance framework for the Indian Ocean Region.

Air Force Deploys C-130J With Urgent Relief Materials

In the earliest phase of the response, an IAF C-130J Super Hercules landed in Colombo carrying nearly 12 tonnes of humanitarian cargo , including emergency shelters, hygiene kits, tarpaulins, blankets and ready-to-eat food packets. Officials from the High Commission of India oversaw rapid handling and transfer to Sri Lankan authorities for immediate on-ground distribution.

Indian Navy Delivers First Aid Consignment

Naval deployment preceded the airlift, with INS Vikrant and INS Udaigiri sailing into Colombo carrying the initial batch of essential goods. Their prompt mobilization reflects India’s ability to deliver swift maritime relief under HADR operations , a capability strengthened through prior regional missions in the Indian Ocean.

Sri Lanka Faces Escalating Disaster Conditions

Cyclone Ditwah has led to overflowing reservoirs, damaged transport networks and widespread power failures. Several districts remain inundated, with casualties reported, many missing and thousands relocated to temporary shelters . Authorities warn of continued extreme rainfall as rescue efforts struggle against blocked routes and infrastructure loss.

Exam-Oriented Facts

• Operation Sagar Bandhu launched to assist Sri Lanka after Cyclone Ditwah

• C-130J aircraft delivered ~12 tonnes of emergency relief material

• INS Vikrant & INS Udaigiri transported initial aid by sea

• Mission aligns with Neighbourhood First & Vision MAHASAGAR policies

Relevance & Continued Regional Support

India has pledged ongoing assistance and affirmed readiness to send additional shipments if conditions worsen. By combining airlift capability with naval deployment, New Delhi demonstrates its role as a reliable first responder in the Indian Ocean Region , extending solidarity to Sri Lanka as it undertakes large-scale recovery operations.