What Brings India's External Affairs Minister to Sri Lanka? A Deep Dive into the Humanitarian Mission

India's Commitment to Sri Lanka Amidst Crisis

Colombo: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is set to arrive in Sri Lanka on Tuesday as a special envoy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as confirmed by the Indian High Commission on Monday.

This visit highlights India's Neighbourhood First Policy and coincides with Operation 'Sagar Bandhu', initiated last month to assist with the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah.

India was the first nation to respond to Sri Lanka's call for international aid following the cyclone's destruction.

Through Operation 'Sagar Bandhu', India has delivered extensive relief and recovery support.

Since the operation's launch on November 28, over 1,134 tonnes of humanitarian aid have been sent to Sri Lanka, which includes dry food supplies, tents, tarpaulins, hygiene kits, clothing, water purification systems, and 14.5 tonnes of medical supplies and surgical tools.

Indian Naval vessels such as INS Vikrant, INS Udaygiri, INS Sukanya, LCU-54, LCU-57, LCU-51, and INS Gharial have transported significant amounts of relief goods to Colombo and Trincomalee, alongside the Indian Coast Guard Ship Shaurya.

Two teams from the National Disaster Response Force have been deployed for immediate search and rescue efforts, while an 85-member Indian Army Field Hospital established in Mahiyanganaya has provided essential medical care to over 7,000 individuals.

Medical facilities utilizing BHISHM Arogya Maitri cubes have been set up in the most affected regions, and 248 tonnes of Bailey Bridge components, along with 48 engineers, were airlifted to restore vital connectivity.

Helicopters from the Indian Air Force and Navy have been instrumental in evacuating survivors, transporting personnel, and delivering relief supplies, showcasing India's unwavering support for Sri Lanka during this challenging period.