Sri Lanka is facing one of its worst natural disasters in recent years after Cyclone Ditwah tore through several regions, causing deadly landslides, flooding, and widespread destruction. As the island nation struggles to cope with the devastation, India has stepped in with urgent humanitarian support under Operation Sagar Bandhu.
The cyclone left behind a trail of collapsed homes, destroyed roads, and terrified families forced to flee rising waters. Many people are still missing, and the death toll continues to rise as rescue teams pull bodies from landslide-hit areas. With essential services disrupted across the island, swift international assistance has become critical.
PM Modi Offers Condolences and Announces Aid for Sri Lanka
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended India’s solidarity with Sri Lanka at this difficult moment.
“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,” PM Modi said in a message posted on X.
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.
In solidarity with our closest maritime neighbour, India has urgently dispatched relief…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 28, 2025
He confirmed that India has dispatched the first round of humanitarian supplies and stands prepared to increase assistance.
“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.
He added that India’s effort reflects the spirit of its “Neighbourhood First” policy and “Vision MAHASAGAR,” reaffirming the long-standing ties between the two nations.
‘Operation Sagar Bandhu’ Begins
Under the relief mission, Indian naval ships have transported emergency aid to Colombo, including essential supplies for families displaced by the cyclone. The mission aims to support Sri Lanka’s immediate rescue work and help authorities reach remote areas cut off by floodwaters.
Operation Sagar Bandhu commences.
INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri hand over relief material at Colombo. Further steps are underway. #OperationSagarBandhu https://t.co/woMrpfRs3b pic.twitter.com/yrRCmeJsmY
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) November 28, 2025
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed the launch of the operation, noting that Indian naval crews have already delivered relief packages, and more support is being prepared.
“Operation Sagar Bandhu commences. INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri hand over relief material at Colombo. Further steps are underway,” he said.
INS Vikrant to Assist in Flood Rescue for Sri Lanka
India’s aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, which was recently in Colombo for a scheduled visit, will now assist in rescue operations as requested by Sri Lanka. The carrier’s aircraft are expected to help reach regions that remain inaccessible due to landslides and heavy flooding.
Sri Lankan authorities sought India’s help as the cyclone hit the eastern Trincomalee region and triggered severe weather across the island. With floodwaters marooning several communities, aerial support has become essential for evacuations and supply drops.
Cyclone Ditwah’s Impact on Sri Lanka
The cyclone brought more than 300 mm of rain within 24 hours, triggering deadly landslides and flash floods. The worst-hit areas lie in the central and eastern districts, where homes were swept away, and families were forced to escape at short notice.
At least 56 people have lost their lives, while many remain missing. More than 43,000 people have been evacuated to temporary shelters, including schools and community centres. Rescue teams have had to pull stranded families from rooftops as waters rose rapidly.
The relentless rainfall also disrupted normal life across the country. Schools remained shut, major train services were cancelled, and trading on the stock exchange was halted. Many regions remain without electricity, and communication lines have been affected.
India Steps In During Sri Lanka’s Hour of Need
India’s timely assistance reflects its growing regional role in disaster relief. Operation Sagar Bandhu is expected to continue over the next several days as conditions evolve and Sri Lanka assesses the full extent of damage.
The deployment of naval ships and aircraft highlights India’s commitment to supporting its neighbours during emergencies. As Sri Lanka attempts to restore normalcy and rebuild communities, Indian support is likely to play a crucial role in saving lives and stabilising the situation.
