India extends humanitarian aid to Sri Lanka’s north following Cyclone Ditwah

India has stepped up humanitarian and infrastructure support to Sri Lanka in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah , extending relief efforts to the northern Jaffna peninsula under Operation Sagar Bandhu , its flagship regional disaster relief initiative. The operation, which covers countries in the Indian Ocean region , aims to provide rapid disaster response, medical aid, essential supplies, and infrastructure restoration to affected communities.

As part of the operation, engineering and medical teams have been deployed to restore connectivity and assist communities impacted by the cyclone. The Indian High Commission in Colombo, Assistant High Commission in Kandy, and Consulate General of India in Jaffna conducted multiple relief distribution drives across the island. On December 18, High Commissioner Santosh Jha distributed relief kits in Kolonnawa in coordination with the All Ceylon Sufi Spiritual Association and among children at the Bhaktivedanta Children’s Home ‘Gokulam’ at the ISKCON Temple in Colombo. Earlier, assistance was also provided to residents of Nayanalokagama, a village for the visually impaired, and families in Negombo, Gampaha District.

Between December 9 and 19, the Assistant High Commission in Kandy distributed essential food and supplies to hundreds of families in Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, and Badulla districts , while the Consulate General in Jaffna carried out drives in Mannar, Mullaithivu, Kilinochchi , and other parts of Jaffna District. Several tonnes of food and relief material have been handed over to the Government of Sri Lanka under the operation.

The Indian Army deployed engineers to rebuild critical infrastructure, including bridges and road networks. Teams are working along the A35 near Kilinochchi to reconnect communities and restore normalcy.

India’s assistance prioritised vulnerable groups , including children and the visually impaired, combining humanitarian aid with infrastructure support for holistic recovery. The initiative also underscores India’s commitment to regional cooperation , strengthening ties with Sri Lanka, promoting stability, and showcasing its role as a reliable partner in the Indian Ocean region .

Under Operation Sagar Bandhu , India is offering Sri Lanka continued humanitarian aid, infrastructure restoration, medical support, and essential supplies , reflecting a long-term commitment to disaster relief and regional solidarity.