India Deploys Warships and Helicopters to Rescue Cyclone-Hit Sri Lanka

India initiated one of its largest humanitarian missions, Operation Sagar Bandhu, to assist cyclone-hit Sri Lanka following Cyclone Ditwah, which caused widespread floods and landslides. Within hours of the request, INS Vikrant, INS Udaygiri, and INS Sukanya were dispatched, with Vikrant serving as a floating command and relief platform. Indian Navy helicopters carried out rooftop rescues, evacuated stranded civilians, and delivered essential supplies to isolated villages. The Indian Air Force conducted continuous airlifts using C-130J and Il-76 aircraft, transporting over 40 tonnes of relief material, 80 NDRF personnel, and sniffer dogs within the first 48 hours. NDRF teams are working alongside Sri Lankan forces in the hardest-hit districts, clearing debris and locating survivors. India also evacuated hundreds of its citizens and continues to provide medical, communication, and rehabilitation support under the Neighbourhood First policy.