India has intensified its humanitarian efforts in Sri Lanka as the island nation continues to struggle with severe flooding, landslides, and persistent rain triggered by Cyclone Ditwah.
Under Operation Sagar Bandhu, Indian rescue teams are working around the clock to support thousands of affected families.
Indian officials are coordinating closely with the Sri Lanka Air Force, Navy, Army, Police, and local first responders to aid flood-hit communities.
This joint effort aims to reach remote areas where rising waters and damaged infrastructure have left many residents stranded.
Furthermore, the Indian Air Force has deployed Mi-17 V5 helicopters in Colombo to carry out swift Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions.
These helicopters are conducting supply drops, rescue operations, and emergency evacuations.
Evacuation and Airlift Support
IAF transport aircraft will carry out the large-scale evacuation of Indian nationals, with several flights scheduled from Trivandrum and Hindan.
Alongside evacuations, Indian aircraft are airlifting essential relief materials, including Bhishm cubes, medical supplies, and emergency provisions to support affected communities.
In a statement, officials affirmed India’s commitment, noting: “As part of India’s ongoing relief efforts in Sri Lanka, the Indian Air Force has positioned Mi-17 V5 helicopters in Colombo for swift HADR operations. IAF transport aircraft are earmarked for large-scale evacuation of Indian nationals, with multiple missions planned from Trivandrum and Hindan. Alongside evacuation, essential relief material, including Bhishm cubes and medical supplies are also being airlifted to support affected communities. The IAF remains steadfast in safeguarding lives and extending timely assistance to our neighbours in need.”
#OperationSagarBandhu | IAF Humanitarian Assistance
As part of India’s ongoing relief efforts in Sri Lanka, the Indian Air Force has positioned Mi-17 V5 helicopters in Colombo for swift HADR operations.
IAF transport aircraft are earmarked for large-scale evacuation of Indian… pic.twitter.com/eoSRn6O9pZ
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) November 30, 2025
India’s naval teams are also playing a crucial role. Two Indian Navy helicopters have rescued eight people trapped by rising floodwaters in Pannala, one of the worst-affected regions.
Four Indian helicopters are carrying out missions across Sri Lanka, including two operating from the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant.
The aircraft has flown repeated sorties over inundated areas where homes became inaccessible. They transported the rescued individuals to safer locations and handed them over to Sri Lankan authorities.
Rising Humanitarian Toll
The scale of the disaster continues to grow. According to Sri Lanka’s Disaster Management Centre (DMC), the death toll has risen to 153, while 191 people remain missing.
Many areas remain marooned as relentless rains hamper rescue efforts.
Latest DMC figures indicate that 774,724 people from 217,263 families across 25 districts have been affected.
Additionally, Flooding, landslides, and persistent rainfall have left communities struggling for essential supplies and safe shelter.
At present, 100,898 individuals from 27,494 families are taking refuge in 798 evacuation centres nationwide.
Authorities are working to ensure adequate relief materials and medical assistance for the displaced population.
Communication breakdowns continue to challenge rescue teams, particularly in the worst-hit regions, where damaged infrastructure has slowed coordination and delayed assistance.
India’s increasing support under Operation Sagar Bandhu highlights its commitment to regional humanitarian cooperation as Sri Lanka confronts one of its most severe weather-related disasters in recent years.
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