Thu Jan 01 11:50:55 UTC 2026: Headline: Sri Lanka Honors International Aid After Cyclone Ditwah Leaves Over 600 Dead
Colombo, Sri Lanka – January 1, 2026: The Sri Lanka Navy on Thursday honored eight foreign vessels, including two from India, for their crucial assistance in the wake of Cyclone Ditwah, which devastated the island nation in late November 2025, leaving over 600 dead and 175 still missing. Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya personally thanked diplomatic officials from the contributing countries.
The cyclone caused widespread flooding, landslides, and infrastructure damage, overwhelming Sri Lanka’s disaster response capabilities. Among the first to respond were the Indian Navy’s aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri, which delivered vital relief supplies as part of “Operation Sagar Bandhu,” commencing on the day of the cyclone’s landfall.
The Sri Lanka Navy acknowledged the “invaluable support” provided by foreign warships, initially in the country for the International Fleet Review 2025 marking the Navy’s 75th anniversary, but promptly redirected to humanitarian efforts. Helicopters from INS Vikrant played a critical role in rescue and relief operations.
Operation Sagar Bandhu delivered over 1,100 tonnes of relief material, including food, shelter, hygiene kits, and water purification supplies. Over 14 tonnes of medicines and medical equipment, and another 60 tonnes of relief operations equipment were also provided. Indian Air Force Mi-17 helicopters were deployed in Sri Lanka for over two weeks.
On December 23, 2025, India announced a $450 million reconstruction package for Sri Lanka, comprising $350 million in concessional Lines of Credit and $100 million in grants. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s commitment to assisting Sri Lanka’s rebuilding efforts following the devastating cyclone.
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