New Delhi, Dec 2 (UNI) Reaffirming its commitment under the MAHASAGAR vision and Neighbourhood First policy, India has deployed INS Vikrant, INS Udaygiri, INS Sukanya and a specialised Indian Army contingent to deliver relief supplies, conduct aerial surveys, support search-and-rescue efforts and help restore essential services in Sri Lanka under Operation Sagar Bandhu following Cyclone Ditwah.
In a statement here, the Naval spokesperson said the Indian Navy has undertaken comprehensive humanitarian assistance and disaster relief 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 additionally deployed INS Sukanya to Trincomalee, today. 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.
The Army spokesperson stated that the Indian Army has deployed a specialised contingent to Sri Lanka under Operation Sagar Bandhu, reinforcing India’s commitment to stand by the Sri Lankan people in their hour of need.
The contingent comprises dedicated medical, engineering and signals components equipped to provide immediate and sustained relief.
The medical team includes Advanced Dressing Stations (ADS) and Mobile Surgical Teams (MST), equipped with operation theatre, capable of conducting major and minor surgeries.
It also has a dedicated facility to hold 20-30 patients at a time. Engineering elements, part of the Indian Army contingent, are supporting restoration of essential services and infrastructure and the signals detachment is ensuring uninterrupted communication for relief operations.
