In the wake of Cyclone Ditwah's devastating impact on Sri Lanka, India has stepped up as a key partner in the island nation's recovery efforts. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, as the special envoy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, visited Colombo on December 23, 2025, to personally convey India's commitment to assist in the reconstruction process.
India has pledged a comprehensive assistance package of $450 million to Sri Lanka. This commitment includes $350 million in concessional lines of credit and $100 million in grants. The aid is intended to support Sri Lanka in rebuilding its transport infrastructure, housing, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and agricultural sector, all of which have been severely affected by the cyclone.
A crucial part of India's immediate response was "Operation Sagar Bandhu," which delivered approximately 1100 tonnes of relief material and over 14.5 tonnes of medicines and medical equipment to Sri Lanka. This operation commenced immediately after Cyclone Ditwah made landfall, demonstrating India's commitment to its "Neighbourhood First" policy and the "MAHASAGAR" vision for the Indian Ocean region.
In addition to financial aid and essential supplies, India has also played a vital role in restoring connectivity in cyclone-affected areas. The Indian Air Force airlifted a 110-tonne Bailey Bridge to Sri Lanka. This modular bridge system, which can be rapidly installed, is designed to replace damaged bridges and restore crucial access for relief teams and emergency services. The bridge was installed in the Kilinochchi district of the Northern Province, one of the areas most severely affected by the cyclone. The swift deployment and installation of the Bailey Bridge, carried out by the Indian Army's Engineer Task Force, helped to reconnect communities that had been isolated for nearly three weeks.
Beyond the immediate aftermath, India is also focused on supporting Sri Lanka's long-term recovery. The $450 million reconstruction package will focus on the rehabilitation and restoration of vital infrastructure, including roads, railways, and bridges. It will also provide support for the construction of houses that have been completely or partially destroyed. India has also assured to encourage tourism in Sri Lanka and help increase foreign direct investment.
India's commitment to Sri Lanka extends beyond material assistance. During the initial relief efforts, Indian naval assets such as INS Vikrant and INS Udayagiri delivered humanitarian supplies to Colombo. Mi-17 helicopters from the Indian Air Force conducted aerial relief operations for over two weeks. An 80-member team from the National Disaster Response Force was deployed for rescue operations, and the Indian Army established a field hospital near Kandy, providing emergency medical care to over 8,000 people. Furthermore, two modular BHISHM emergency care units were airlifted to Sri Lanka.
The collaborative efforts between India and Sri Lanka in the face of this natural disaster highlight the strong relationship between the two nations. India's quick and comprehensive response underscores its commitment to being a reliable partner and first responder in the region, especially during times of crisis.
