New Delhi: India has announced a USD 450 million reconstruction and assistance package for Sri Lanka to support recovery efforts following the widespread devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah. The commitment was conveyed during high level engagements in Colombo, reinforcing India’s position as a first responder and its long standing partnership with the island nation.
The assistance package was communicated by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who is visiting Sri Lanka as the Special Envoy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During meetings with Sri Lanka’s leadership, he handed over a letter from the Prime Minister outlining India’s support and commitment to rapid reconstruction. The focus of discussions was on ensuring swift and effective delivery of the pledged assistance.
The package includes USD 350 million in concessional lines of credit and USD 100 million in grants. It is being finalised in close coordination with the Sri Lankan government to align with priority recovery needs. India has described the initiative as a natural extension of its Neighbourhood First and Mahasagar policies, aimed at supporting close partners during times of crisis.
India’s response began immediately after Cyclone Ditwah made landfall with the launch of Operation Sagar Bandhu. The relief mission saw the deployment of naval and air assets, including aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and other naval vessels carrying essential supplies. Indian Air Force helicopters operated across affected areas for over two weeks, supporting relief and evacuation efforts.
An 80 member National Disaster Response Force team conducted rescue operations on the ground, while an Indian Army field hospital staffed by 85 medical personnel provided emergency treatment to thousands. In total, more than 1,100 tonnes of relief material were delivered, including food supplies, shelter equipment, hygiene kits, medical aid, clothing, and water purification units.
India also prioritised the restoration of critical connectivity. Army engineers constructed a Bailey bridge at Kilinochchi, with another bridge currently under construction at Chilaw to reconnect affected regions.
The new reconstruction package will support housing, transport infrastructure, health and education services, agriculture recovery, and improved disaster preparedness. India also reiterated its continued support through tourism promotion and investment, expressing confidence in Sri Lanka’s resilience as it recovers from yet another major challenge.
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