Colombo, Nov. 29 – India has launched a massive humanitarian relief mission to assist Sri Lanka following the severe weather and flooding that displaced thousands across the island. Under the banner of Operation Sagar Bandhu, the Indian Navy and Indian Air Force (IAF) have mobilised ships and aircraft to deliver essential aid within hours of Sri Lanka’s request for assistance.
Earlier today, a C-130J Super Hercules aircraft of the Indian Air Force landed in Colombo carrying approximately 12 tonnes of relief supplies, including emergency tents, tarpaulins, blankets, hygiene kits, and ready-to-eat meals. The consignment was handed over to Sri Lankan authorities at the tarmac, marking the first major air delivery under the operation.
Simultaneously, the Indian Navy’s flagship aircraft carrier INS Vikrant arrived at Colombo Port loaded with additional humanitarian supplies. Senior naval officials and representatives of the Indian High Commission formally handed over consignments consisting of dry rations, medical supplies, drinking water, and other essential relief materials.
The ship’s crew was seen coordinating with Sri Lankan personnel to offload large quantities of aid despite persistent rain conditions. The operation highlights India’s readiness to deploy its most advanced naval asset for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) missions in the region.
Indian officials emphasised that the relief mission underscores the ethos of “United Through Oceans”, symbolising the close maritime and humanitarian partnership between India and Sri Lanka. With more supplies expected in the coming hours and days, Operation Sagar Bandhu is set to become one of the largest bilateral relief efforts in recent years.
Sri Lankan authorities expressed appreciation for India’s swift response, noting that the supplies will be immediately dispatched to the most affected districts.
India previously extended similar assistance through Operation Sagar missions in 2020–2021 during the pandemic and natural disasters across the region. The latest deployment continues New Delhi’s policy of prioritising neighbourhood-first cooperation and rapid HADR capability.
Further updates on aid distribution and additional deployments under Operation Sagar Bandhu are expected as the situation evolves.
