Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s unshakeable support for Sri Lanka during a phone chat with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, as the island nation battles with the devastating effects of Cyclone Ditwah. PM Modi conveyed his sympathies for the loss of life and massive devastation caused by the disaster. He emphasised that India will continue to support Sri Lanka’s rescue, relief, and rehabilitation efforts under Operation Sagar Bandhu.

President Dissanayake thanked PM Modi for India’s prompt and extensive help. He observed that Sri Lankans were particularly impressed by India’s prompt response, which offered professional rescue personnel, urgently needed supplies, and ongoing evacuation assistance. India’s relief efforts have yielded considerable results on the ground. Over 53 tonnes of relief items have been delivered to affected areas, along with medical supplies, emergency food, and critical equipment.

NDRF teams and Indian military assets, such as Navy helicopters and IAF planes, have rescued over 120 individuals, including foreign nationals. India has also enabled the evacuation of almost 1,500 stranded individuals using special and commercial flights. PM Modi vowed that the operation would go on as long as needed, in line with India’s Vision MAHASAGAR and its duty as a reliable First Responder.