India's External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, announced that a C-130J aircraft has successfully delivered approximately 12 tons of humanitarian aid to Colombo. This assistance is part of Operation Sagar Bandhu, initiated by India to provide immediate relief following the devastation caused by Cyclone Dithwa in Sri Lanka. The cyclone has tragically claimed over 80 lives so far. Jaishankar shared on social media: “#OperationSagarBandhu is underway. The Indian Air Force's C-130J has reached Colombo with nearly 12 tons of relief supplies, including tents, tarpaulins, blankets, hygiene kits, and ready-to-eat food.”

Initial Relief Efforts by Indian Navy

Earlier on Friday, the first significant batch of relief supplies was delivered to Sri Lanka by the Indian Navy's aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and the warship INS Udaygiri. Both vessels arrived in Colombo carrying essential logistics, which were handed over to Sri Lankan authorities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on social media, stating that the loss of life and property in Sri Lanka is heartbreaking, and India stands in full solidarity with its “closest maritime neighbor.” He mentioned that relief materials and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) equipment have been dispatched immediately. PM Modi noted, “India is prepared to assist as per the situation.” He also highlighted that this aid aligns with India’s Neighbourhood First policy and Vision MAHASAGAR.

Severe Impact of Cyclone Dithwa

The situation in Sri Lanka is worsening due to flooding and landslides caused by Cyclone Dithwa, which is considered one of the most severe natural disasters the country has faced in recent years. Reports indicate that over 80 individuals have lost their lives, with significant destruction recorded across several provinces. According to the Sri Lanka Disaster Management Center (DMC), 61 fatalities have been confirmed, and 25 people are still missing. Approximately 44,000 individuals from over 12,000 families have been affected. Rising water levels in the Kelani and Attanagalu rivers in the Western Province have prompted warnings of an “unprecedented disaster.”

Forecast of Heavy Rainfall

The meteorological department has forecasted over 200 mm of rainfall in the northern, central, north-central, northwestern, Sabaragamuwa, and western provinces. Additionally, warnings have been issued for more than 150 mm of rain in the Trincomalee, Badulla, Galle, and Matara districts. The DMC reported that four houses have been completely destroyed, and over 600 have sustained partial damage.

India's Strategic Commitment

Operation Sagar Bandhu represents not only a humanitarian initiative but also symbolizes India's strategic and moral commitments in South Asia. Providing swift assistance to a close neighbor like Sri Lanka during a crisis underscores India's regional role and responsibilities. This operation is a natural continuation of the maritime security and development framework India has established with its neighbors, including the Maldives, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, and Seychelles. The deployment of the C-130J and the two naval vessels illustrates that India is fulfilling its responsibilities not just in words but in action.

Challenges Faced by Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is currently navigating a challenging period, with an economic crisis compounded by a natural disaster that has further strained its infrastructure and administrative capabilities. India's proactive stance is not merely about providing aid; it also aims to foster regional stability. However, this has broader geopolitical implications. Amidst China's increasing activity in the Indian Ocean region, India's Neighbourhood First policy positions it as a reliable, responsive, and sensitive partner. For Sri Lanka, the message is clear: India is the first to stand by in times of crisis.

Future Preparedness and Leadership

India must continue to enhance its capabilities in areas such as HADR missions, coastal surveillance, regional dialogue, and disaster management cooperation. This capacity is crucial not only from a humanitarian perspective but also plays a decisive role diplomatically during times of natural disasters.

Conclusion

Ultimately, Operation Sagar Bandhu has emerged as a powerful symbol of India's humanitarian diplomacy, maritime strategy, and commitment to its neighboring countries, reinforcing India's identity as a regional leader that South Asia urgently needs.