External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Tuesday announced a $450 million reconstruction package for Sri Lanka, reaffirming India’s role as a first responder following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah.
Highlighting Sri Lanka’s importance under India’s Neighbourhood First and MAHASAGAR policies, Jaishankar said it was natural for India to step forward during times of crisis. He recalled India’s earlier support to Sri Lanka during its economic difficulties.
The External Affairs Minister called on Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in Colombo and handed over a letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirming India’s commitment to Sri Lanka’s recovery and reconstruction.
Addressing a joint press conference with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, Jaishankar said the reconstruction package amounts to $450 million, comprising $350 million in concessional lines of credit and $100 million in grants. The package is being finalised in close consultation with the Sri Lankan government and will focus on sectors worst affected by the cyclone.
Jaishankar noted that India’s relief mission under Operation Sagar Bandhu began on the very day Cyclone Ditwah made landfall. Indian naval assets, including aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri, delivered relief materials, while Indian Air Force MI-17 helicopters conducted rescue and relief operations for over two weeks.
An 80-member National Disaster Response Force team carried out rescue efforts, while the Indian Army established a field hospital near Kandy with 85 medical personnel, providing emergency care to over 8,000 people. Two modular BHISHM emergency medical units were also airlifted to Sri Lanka.
According to Jaishankar, Operation Sagar Bandhu delivered over 1,100 tonnes of relief material, including dry rations, tents, tarpaulins, hygiene kits, essential clothing and water purification kits. In addition, 14.5 tonnes of medicines and medical equipment were supplied, along with another 60 tonnes of relief equipment.
Restoring connectivity emerged as an immediate priority following the cyclone, Jaishankar said, adding that rebuilding efforts are being closely coordinated with the Sri Lankan government.
“India stands firmly with Sri Lanka more than ever before,” the minister said, expressing confidence in the island nation’s resilience and recovery.
