Sri Lanka Navy Honors Foreign Vessels for Cyclone Relief Efforts

In the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, which caused significant destruction in Sri Lanka, the Sri Lanka Navy has recognized eight foreign vessels, including two from India, for their vital support. Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya expressed gratitude to the diplomatic representatives involved. The cyclone led to severe flooding and landslides, overwhelming the country's disaster response. The Indian Navy's Operation Sagar Bandhu played a crucial role in delivering over 1,100 tonnes of relief supplies. As the nation grapples with the aftermath, India has pledged a reconstruction package of USD 450 million to aid in recovery efforts.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 1, 2026, 16:49 IST

International Support Following Cyclone Ditwah

Colombo: On Thursday, the Sri Lanka Navy recognized eight foreign vessels, including two from India, for their crucial support following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah, which resulted in over 600 fatalities.

Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya conveyed her appreciation to the diplomatic representatives from the assisting nations, as stated by Navy spokesman Commander Sampath.

The cyclone, which struck Sri Lanka last week, led to extensive flooding, landslides, and significant damage to infrastructure, overwhelming the nation's disaster response capabilities.

The Indian Navy's aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and another vessel, INS Udaygiri, were among the first to engage in rescue and relief operations.

When Cyclone Ditwah made landfall on November 27, eight foreign naval ships had already arrived in Sri Lanka for the International Fleet Review 2025, celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Sri Lanka Navy.

In the wake of the disaster, the Sri Lanka Navy highlighted the importance of international and regional collaboration, acknowledging the vital humanitarian assistance provided by foreign warships during the crisis.

Due to the severe weather conditions, the foreign naval vessels present for the event were quickly redirected to aid in humanitarian efforts, particularly with helicopters from INS Vikrant.

India's relief initiative, dubbed Operation Sagar Bandhu, began on the same day Cyclone Ditwah hit. INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri were instrumental in delivering essential supplies.

Operation Sagar Bandhu successfully transported over 1,100 tonnes of relief supplies, including food, tents, hygiene kits, clothing, and water purification equipment.

Additionally, around 14.5 tons of medical supplies were sent, along with another 60 tons of equipment to support relief efforts.

Several Mi-17 helicopters from the Indian Air Force operated in Sri Lanka for more than two weeks.

As of January 1, the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) in Colombo reported that 644 individuals had lost their lives, with 175 still unaccounted for since November 16, due to the widespread destruction caused by landslides and floods.

On December 23, India announced a reconstruction aid package of USD 450 million for Sri Lanka, as External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with the country's leaders to reaffirm India's commitment to supporting Sri Lanka's recovery post-cyclone.

This assistance will comprise USD 350 million in concessional lines of credit and USD 100 million in grants.