What is Operation Sagar Bandhu?
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Operation Sagar Bandhu (translated as "Friend of the Seas") is a major humanitarian mission launched by India on November 28, 2025, to assist Sri Lanka in the aftermath of the devastating Cyclone Ditwah. The operation is a prime example of India's "Neighbourhood First" policy and its Vision MAHASAGARead more
Operation Sagar Bandhu (translated as “Friend of the Seas”) is a major humanitarian mission launched by India on November 28, 2025, to assist Sri Lanka in the aftermath of the devastating Cyclone Ditwah. The operation is a prime example of India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and its Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions), positioning India as the primary “first responder” for natural disasters in the Indian Ocean.
Key Objectives and Impact
Humanitarian Aid: India has delivered over 1,134 tonnes of essential supplies, including dry rations, fresh food, medicines, surgical equipment, tents, and water purification units.
Search and Rescue (SAR): Indian helicopters (Chetak and MI-17) have rescued hundreds of stranded individuals, including pregnant women, infants, and foreign nationals from over a dozen countries.
Infrastructure Restoration: An Engineer Task Force from the Indian Army was deployed with Bailey bridges and heavy machinery to restore critical road connectivity in flood-hit regions like Kilinochchi.
Medical Assistance: The Indian Army’s 60 Parachute Field Hospital treated more than 7,000 patients, providing surgical, dental, and general medical care in severely affected areas.
Military Assets Involved
The mission saw a massive, coordinated effort between the Indian Navy, Air Force, and Army:
See lessIndian Navy: Deployed the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, the frigate INS Udaygiri, and several other ships including INS Sukanya and INS Gharial.
Indian Air Force: Utilized C-130J Super Hercules and C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft for rapid airlifting of personnel and heavy equipment.
Indian Coast Guard: The ship ICGS Shaurya delivered significant consignments of dry rations.
NDRF: Specialized teams from the National Disaster Response Force assisted in ground-level search and recovery operations.