In response to the impact of Cyclonic Storm Ditwah in Sri Lanka, the Indian Navy has undertaken comprehensive Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations under Operation Sagar Bandhu. Indian Naval Ships INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri, which were present in Colombo as part of the 75th Anniversary International Fleet Review (IFR-2025) of the Sri Lanka Navy, were tasked at short notice to provide immediate relief based on emerging requirements ashore. As part of the effort, the ships have handed over relief provisions for distribution to affected communities.

 The ship-borne helicopters were deployed for aerial reconnaissance of the affected areas and augmented ongoing Search and Rescue efforts, leading to the successful rescue of Sri Lankan citizens.

Augmenting these efforts, the Indian Navy has additionally deployed INS Sukanya to Trincomalee on 01 Dec 2025. The ship carried critical relief materials to further strengthen ongoing assistance to the people of Sri Lanka. Close coordination between Indian and Sri Lankan authorities is underway to ensure the timely and effective delivery of essential aid.

Indian Navy's swift response once again underscores its role as the First Responder in Indian Ocean Region (IOR). It also reaffirms India’s unwavering commitment to support partner nations in times of need, in line with the Government of India’s MAHASAGAR vision and Neighbourhood First policy. The Indian Navy remains fully committed to extending humanitarian support and remains in steadfast solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka.

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VM/SPS                                                                                                     266/25

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