India’s Humanitarian Response to Cyclone Ditwah: Operation Sagar Bandhu

India's Humanitarian Response to Cyclone Ditwah

In the wake of the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka, India has significantly escalated its humanitarian efforts under Operation Sagar Bandhu. The Indian Navy has deployed four additional warships carrying essential aid aimed at supporting the cyclone-affected populations, reinforcing India's role as a reliable regional responder.

Cyclone Ditwah and Relief Requirements

Cyclone Ditwah struck Sri Lanka in late November 2025, leading to severe flooding, landslides, and considerable infrastructure damage. Many communities faced dire conditions with limited access to clean water, shelter, and medical care. In response, India launched a large-scale Humanitarian Assistance and disaster relief (HADR) initiative to provide immediate relief to those affected.

What Is Operation Sagar Bandhu?

Operation Sagar Bandhu is a rapid humanitarian mission initiated by India to assist Sri Lanka following Cyclone Ditwah. This operation reflects India's Neighbourhood First policy and the strategic MAHASAGAR vision aimed at fostering cooperative security and humanitarian engagement within the Indian Ocean Region.

• Deployment of Indian Navy ships and Landing Craft Utilities (LCUs) for effective relief delivery.
• Support from the Indian Air Force and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) for evacuations and medical assistance.
• Provision of essential supplies such as food, water, tents, medical kits, and rescue equipment.

Recent naval deployment

On 8 December 2025, the Indian Navy dispatched four additional ships to bolster the ongoing relief efforts: INS Gharial (amphibious warfare ship), LCU 54, LCU 51, and LCU 57. These vessels are transporting nearly 1,000 metric tons of humanitarian aid, specifically targeting coastal and remote regions impacted by the cyclone. The three LCUs arrived in Colombo on 7 December 2025, successfully delivering supplies to Sri Lankan authorities. INS Gharial is anticipated to reach Trincomalee on 8 December 2025 to continue the aid distribution in the eastern part of the island.

Significance of the Mission

Strengthening India-Sri Lanka Relations: This mission exemplifies the strong people-to-people ties and the spirit of regional cooperation between India and Sri Lanka. It transcends strategic interests and underscores a profound humanitarian commitment.

Humanitarian Leadership in the Indian Ocean Region: India’s swift and extensive response enhances its reputation as a regional humanitarian leader, capable of deploying advanced naval and air assets for disaster relief effectively.

Scalable Relief Operation: By utilizing ships already engaged in peacetime activities, such as fleet reviews, India has showcased its flexibility and efficiency in reassigning military assets for civilian aid—a vital capability during disaster scenarios.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is Operation Sagar Bandhu?
Answer: Operation Sagar Bandhu is India's humanitarian mission aimed at providing assistance to Sri Lanka following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah, reflecting India's commitment to regional support.

Q2. How did Cyclone Ditwah affect Sri Lanka?
Answer: Cyclone Ditwah caused severe flooding, landslides, and significant infrastructure damage in Sri Lanka, leaving many communities without access to essential resources like water and shelter.

Q3. What types of aid are being provided under Operation Sagar Bandhu?
Answer: The aid includes food, water, medical kits, tents, and rescue equipment delivered by the Indian Navy and other supporting agencies to the cyclone-affected areas.

Q4. How many ships were deployed for the relief effort?
Answer: Four additional Indian Navy ships were deployed for the relief operation, including the amphibious warfare ship INS Gharial and three Landing Craft Utilities (LCUs).

Q5. What is the significance of India's role in this humanitarian mission?
Answer: India's response reaffirms its position as a humanitarian leader in the Indian Ocean Region, emphasizing its commitment to regional cooperation and disaster relief.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What was the main purpose of Operation Sagar Bandhu?
A) Conduct military exercises
B) Provide humanitarian aid to Sri Lanka
C) Train naval forces
D) Establish trade routes
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which Indian Navy ship was mentioned as part of the recent deployment for relief?
A) INS Vikrant
B) INS Gharial
C) INS Kolkata
D) INS Talwar
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What type of disaster did Cyclone Ditwah cause in Sri Lanka?
A) Drought
B) Flooding and landslides
C) Earthquake
D) Tsunami
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: How much humanitarian aid was deployed by the Indian Navy during this operation?
A) 500 metric tons
B) 1,000 metric tons
C) 2,000 metric tons
D) 3,000 metric tons
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: Which organization supported the Indian Navy in medical evacuations?
A) Indian Air Force
B) Border Security Force
C) National Disaster Response Force
D) Coast Guard
Correct Answer: C