NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday spoke with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, offering condolences over the loss of lives and extensive destruction caused by Cyclone Ditwah. Modi reaffirmed India’s solidarity with Sri Lanka and pledged continued assistance under Operation Sagar Bandhu, part of India’s Vision Mahasagar and its role as the region’s “First Responder.”
President Dissanayake thanked India for its swift support, including the rapid deployment of rescue teams and relief supplies, and conveyed the Sri Lankan people’s gratitude for New Delhi’s timely intervention.
Modi assured that India would keep extending all necessary help as Sri Lanka moves into the rehabilitation phase—restoring public services, rebuilding infrastructure and reviving livelihoods in affected regions. Both leaders agreed to remain in close contact as relief efforts continue.
Sri Lanka’s Disaster Management Centre said on Sunday that the death toll from Cyclone Ditwah has climbed to at least 334, while nearly 400 people remain missing. The storm has caused massive damage to homes and critical infrastructure. President Dissanayake has declared a state of emergency and appealed for international support.
India launched Operation Sagar Bandhu on November 28 to provide urgent humanitarian assistance. In coordination with Sri Lankan authorities, India delivered 53 tonnes of relief supplies, including food, medical kits, tents and hygiene materials, through Indian Navy ships and three IAF aircraft. Over 80 NDRF and USAR personnel were deployed for rescue operations.
Helicopters from INS Vikrant and IAF Mi-17s carried out extensive airlift missions, rescuing 121 people of multiple nationalities, including critically injured individuals. India also evacuated around 1,500 stranded citizens via special IAF and commercial flights.
Reinforcing its Neighbourhood First policy, India continues to support Sri Lanka’s rescue, relief and recovery efforts as the island faces one of its worst natural disasters in years.
