Colombo - The island nation of Sri Lanka has been suffering from a severe disaster that followed the event of Cyclone Ditwah. The major rainfall and overflowing rivers have ruined the whole nation, and the number of dead has exceeded 80 at least, reported by official sources. To counter this calamity, India very promptly offered a rescue operation named ‘Operation Sagar Bandhu,’ which means 'Friend of the Sea,' to its next-door maritime neighbour.

The help was given in a very fast and powerful way. A C-130J Indian Air Force aircraft landed in Colombo with its important load of about 12 tonnes of humanitarian supplies. This relief activity consisted of the very necessary and urgent things such as durable tents, warm blankets, hygiene kits, and ready-to-eat food, that the thousands of families rendered homeless by the floods were in dire need of. The Indian Navy too had its aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, and warship INS Udaigiri, which were carrying the first consignments, thus indicating the large scale of the immediate relief effort.

This rapid response undoubtedly demonstrates India's strong loyalty to its 'Neighbourhood First' principle. PM Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the deceased and assured that India is on standby for sending more assistance as the situation unfolds. This operation is a strong indication of the close and lasting relationship that exists between the two countries, thus, supporting the people of Sri Lanka with a glimmer of hope in their dark times.