Whenever it comes to extending first humanitarian aid and fighting back adversity, India is the first one to step forward to support a friendly neighbour.
This instinctive response is driven by a deeply rooted civilisational ethos Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the belief that the world is one family. An ideology that guides India’s actions in the hour of crisis where values translate into swift action.
In the wake of Cyclone Ditwah, India has proved it again that its regional leadership is anchored in decisive action. The Indian Army has deployed a specialised humanitarian assistance contingent to Sri Lanka under Operation Sagar Bandhu.
This swift response shows India’s spirit of long-standing civilisational bond with Sri Lanka that is deep rooted in solidarity and shared responsibility.
A Multi-Domain Humanitarian Deployment
The Indian Army contingent deployed under Op Sagar Bandhu comprises engineering, medical and signals elements.
Medical Support:
This was a fully operational PARA Field Hospital that featured
- Advanced Dressing Stations (ADS)
- Mobile Surgical Teams (MST) with full operation theatre capability
- Capacity to hold and treat 20–30 patients simultaneously
As of 08 December 2025, the medical team has treated:
- 3,338 patients in total
- 1,128 patients in a single day
- 73 minor procedures
- 4 surgical operations
The efforts have been appreciated hospital by the local communities and the visit by the Sri Lankan President is soon expected.
Engineering Task Force: Rebuilding Critical Connectivity
The Engineer Task Force (ETF) of the Indian Army is playing a decisive role in restoring critical infrastructure disrupted by the cyclone.
Jaffna: Puliyampokkanai Bridge Restoration
- Retrieval and de-launching operations of the damaged bridge have been commenced.
- Through wheeled excavators, support has been provided to Sri Lanka’s Road Development Authority (RDA)
- The launch of the first Bailey bridge is planned by Saturday afternoon
- To support the construction of a 120-ft dual carriageway at Jaffna, 70% of stores have already been shifted from the RDA Store Yard, with the remaining load scheduled to reach the site by Wednesday evening.
Chilaw: Parallel Bridge Efforts
- Pier construction to begin within 48 hours
- One complete Bailey bridge set already on site
- Loading of the 4th Bailey Bridge set is currently underway at Pathankot. The expected departure is on 9th December at 0900 hrs.
The ultimate power of Aatmanirbhar Bharat
The Indian Army has utilized its modernized, indigenous systems to expediate the operations:
- Remotely Operated Combat Cruiser UGVs
- SONAR-based Laser Range Finders
- Drones for aerial reconnaissance
- Advanced survey and site-assessment tools
These technologies have enabled faster execution in disaster-affected zones. India has showcased the power of modern and new aged Bharat that is self-reliant, Aatmanirbhar!
India Stands with Sri Lanka
India’s strategic humanitarian commitment has created a larger impact with its integrated medical expertise, engineering precision, and indigenous technologies. India’s response reinforces, ‘When friendly neighbours are in need, India always stands for them!’