Sri Lanka is struggling with its worst weather disaster this year. Government offices and schools have been shut, and officials say the death toll has climbed to 56. More than 600 homes have been damaged, and thousands have been displaced across the island nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday expressed deep condolences to the people of Sri Lanka, who are facing severe loss and destruction after Cyclone Ditwah triggered widespread floods and landslides. In a strong message of support, India has rushed relief materials and urgent Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) aid under a new mission named Operation Sagar Bandhu.
India Steps In With Operation Sagar Bandhu
To help Sri Lanka in its hour of need, New Delhi launched Operation Sagar Bandhu. As part of this mission, the first set of relief supplies was delivered by the Indian Navy. The materials were transported using INS Vikrant, India’s aircraft carrier, and the frontline warship INS Udaigiri.
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
---Advertisement---— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) November 28, 2025
Officials say this move highlights India’s Neighbourhood First policy and its commitment to supporting partner countries during emergencies. It also adds to India’s growing record of HADR operations, such as Operation Samudra Maitri during Cyclone Idai in 2019.
What Is Operation Sagar Bandhu?
Operation Sagar Bandhu is India’s special Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief mission aimed at helping Sri Lanka recover from the destruction caused by Cyclone Ditwah. Under this operation, Indian Navy ships are delivering essential relief goods, supporting rescue efforts, and providing immediate aid to affected communities. The mission reinforces India’s role as a reliable first responder in the Indian Ocean region.
Why the Operation Matters Strategically
Beyond immediate relief, Operation Sagar Bandhu reflects India’s expanding role in regional disaster response. The use of INS Vikrant also shows the Navy’s preparedness to assist friendly nations quickly. During his visit to Mauritius earlier this year, PM Modi announced the MAHASAGAR vision, aimed at promoting security and growth across regions, especially in the Global South.
Sri Lankan defence officials said they had requested the use of INS Vikrant’s aircraft for rescue operations due to the scale of the disaster.
The mission is also taking place as Sri Lanka hosts events marking the 75th anniversary of its navy, which has brought together naval ships from several countries.
Cyclone Ditwah Leaves Sri Lanka Devastated
Heavy rains caused by Cyclone Ditwah have overwhelmed Sri Lanka’s northeast monsoon season. According to the Disaster Management Centre, more than 43,900 people from over 12,000 families have been affected. At least 21 people remain missing.
The Sri Lankan military has been deployed across the country. Helicopters, naval boats, and thousands of soldiers are helping evacuate stranded residents and deliver relief.
Rivers and reservoirs have overflowed, flooding homes and blocking major roads. Passenger trains have been suspended after several tracks were damaged by mud, fallen trees, and floodwater. Schools have postponed final-year exams, and civil servants were given a day off to avoid travel risks.
Experts warn that Sri Lanka may continue to face extreme weather events due to climate change, making relief efforts and regional cooperation even more important.
