- As Sri Lanka continues to recover from the cyclone’s aftermath, India’s coordinated relief operations provide critical support in restoring essential supplies and infrastructure
- The ongoing efforts of the Indian Navy serve as a reminder of the vital role of regional cooperation in addressing natural disasters and safeguarding lives across the Indian Ocean
The Indian Navy has intensified its humanitarian efforts in cyclone-affected regions of Sri Lanka with the deployment of four additional warships under Operation Sagar Bandhu. This operation, launched to provide immediate Search & Rescue (SAR) and Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief (HADR) support, underscores India’s commitment to aiding its neighbors in times of crisis.
The latest deployment comprises INS Gharial and three Landing Craft Utility (LCU) vessels — LCU 51, LCU 54, and LCU 57 — carrying nearly 1,000 tons of essential relief supplies destined for Sri Lanka’s coastal communities. The LCUs successfully arrived in Colombo on the morning of 7 December 2025, delivering critical humanitarian material to local authorities, while INS Gharial is scheduled to dock at Trincomalee on 8 December 2025.
- Earlier, the Indian Navy had dispatched INS Vikrant, INS Udaygiri, and INS Sukanya, which conducted helicopter-borne search-and-rescue operations and delivered immediate relief to the most severely impacted areas
- With the addition of these four vessels, India has further strengthened its relief logistics, ensuring timely delivery of aid across affected regions
Officials from the Indian Defence Ministry emphasized that the operation demonstrates not only India’s capability for rapid humanitarian response but also the enduring people-to-people bonds shared between India and Sri Lanka. The sustained assistance highlights the strategic and humanitarian role of the Indian Navy in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), reinforcing its position as a reliable partner for neighboring countries during natural disasters.
Operation Sagar Bandhu reflects a broader commitment to regional stability and disaster preparedness, combining naval strength with humanitarian support. The Indian Navy’s proactive approach ensures that aid reaches the most vulnerable communities quickly, mitigating the impact of severe weather events. By leveraging both warships and specialized landing craft, the mission exemplifies an integrated response that balances operational efficiency with compassion.
