Operation Sagar Bandhu — Indian Navy Sends Four More Warships to Sri Lanka

In response to the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka, India has significantly expanded its humanitarian mission under Operation Sagar Bandhu . The Indian Navy has deployed four additional warships carrying essential aid to support the cyclone-affected population, reinforcing India’s role as a reliable regional responder.

Cyclone Ditwah and Relief Requirements

Cyclone Ditwah struck Sri Lanka in late November 2025, causing massive flooding, landslides, and infrastructure damage. Many communities were left without access to clean water, shelter, or medical care. In response, India initiated a large-scale Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) effort to provide immediate relief.

What Is Operation Sagar Bandhu?

Operation Sagar Bandhu is India’s rapid humanitarian mission launched to assist Sri Lanka in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah. It embodies India’s Neighbourhood First policy and the strategic MAHASAGAR vision for cooperative security and humanitarian engagement in the Indian Ocean Region.

The operation involves,

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

Recent Naval Deployment

On 8 December 2025, the Indian Navy dispatched four additional ships to reinforce the ongoing relief effort,

• INS Gharial (amphibious warfare ship)
• LCU 54
• LCU 51
• LCU 57

These vessels are carrying nearly 1,000 metric tons of humanitarian aid, aimed at coastal and remote regions affected by the cyclone. The three LCUs arrived in Colombo on 7 December 2025, handing over supplies to Sri Lankan authorities. INS Gharial is expected to reach Trincomalee on 8 December 2025 to continue aid delivery in the eastern part of the island.

Significance of the Mission

Strengthening India-Sri Lanka Relations

This mission highlights the deep people-to-people ties and the spirit of regional cooperation between India and Sri Lanka. It goes beyond strategic interests and reflects a humanitarian commitment.

Humanitarian Leadership in the Indian Ocean Region

India’s swift and large-scale response enhances its reputation as a regional humanitarian leader, capable of deploying advanced naval and air assets for disaster relief.

Scalable Relief Operation

By deploying ships already involved in peacetime activities like fleet reviews, India has demonstrated flexibility and efficiency in repurposing military assets for civilian aid — a crucial capability in disaster scenarios.

Key Data and Facts

• Date of Launch: 28 November 2025
• Cyclone Affected Areas: Western, Southern, and Central Sri Lanka
• Initial Relief: 53 tons of supplies via IAF and Navy
• Evacuations: Over 2,000 stranded Indians rescued
• Medical Aid: Over 2,000 patients treated in field hospitals