India has evacuated more than 2,000 stranded nationals from flood-hit Sri Lanka after the devastating Cyclone Ditwah triggered massive destruction across the island nation, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Monday.
The cyclone, which caused severe flooding, loss of life and large-scale disruption, prompted India to launch Operation Sagar Bandhu on 28 November to provide urgent search, rescue and humanitarian relief to its closest maritime neighbour.
As part of the operation, India deployed naval ships, Air Force aircraft and specialised rescue teams to assist Sri Lankan authorities.
Over 9.5 tonnes of emergency rations, 12 tonnes of relief supplies, medical teams, hygiene kits, tents, tarpaulins and ready-to-eat meals were dispatched. Indian Air Force helicopters and aircraft also helped rescue foreign nationals from several countries, including Sri Lanka, India, Germany, Slovenia, and others.
The cyclone’s impact was felt in India as well, with heavy rainfall and strong winds affecting Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, leading to flooding, power outages and transport disruptions.
India reaffirmed its commitment to Sri Lanka through its Neighbourhood First policy, expressing solidarity with the Lankan government and assuring continued support for relief and recovery efforts.
