Published on November 1st, 2025 by Oceanic Echoes
The serene island nation of Sri Lanka has recently faced the brutal wrath of #CycloneDitwah, a devastating natural disaster that brought widespread destruction, heavy rains, and deadly landslides. In the wake of this humanitarian crisis, India has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to regional solidarity, launching “Operation Sagar Bandhu.” At the forefront of this critical humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) effort, India’s indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, has deployed its versatile Chetak helicopters for daring rescue sorties, providing a lifeline to those impacted. This swift and compassionate action highlights India’s role as a first responder and a true friend in times of need.
The impact of #CycloneDitwah on Sri Lanka has been catastrophic. Making landfall in November 2025, the cyclone unleashed torrential downpours and fierce winds, triggering massive flooding and devastating landslides across the island. The statistics paint a grim picture: at least 159 lives lost, over 200 people reported missing, and hundreds of thousands displaced. Thousands of homes were either damaged or completely destroyed, leaving countless families without shelter and basic necessities. The scale of the disaster demanded immediate and robust international aid, prompting a global call for disaster relief efforts.
Operation Sagar Bandhu: India’s Swift Response
Operation Sagar Bandhu, initiated by India, quickly mobilized resources to support its neighbor. Central to this mission is the formidable INS Vikrant, showcasing India’s growing naval prowess and its capability to project humanitarian aid effectively. The deployment of INS Vikrant underscores India’s commitment to regional security and its “Neighbourhood First” policy. The presence of the aircraft carrier provided a crucial operational base for aerial support, allowing relief efforts to reach some of the most inaccessible areas ravaged by the cyclone’s fury. This strategic deployment has been vital in coordinating and executing the complex search and rescue missions required in such a challenging environment.
Chetak Helicopters: Wings of Hope
At the heart of the aerial rescue efforts are the reliable Chetak helicopters from INS Vikrant. Two of these robust helicopters have been tirelessly conducting rescue sorties, bravely navigating difficult weather conditions and treacherous terrains to evacuate stranded residents. Crucially, these missions have been undertaken with Sri Lanka Air Force personnel onboard, fostering a spirit of collaborative disaster management and ensuring local expertise guides the operations. The sight of Chetak helicopters descending into flooded areas, plucking people to safety, has been a powerful symbol of hope and India’s compassionate action, earning immense gratitude from the affected communities. Their agility and versatility have made them indispensable in reaching remote pockets of the island nation.
A Multi-Faceted Relief Effort
India’s support extends far beyond aerial assistance. “Operation Sagar Bandhu” embodies a comprehensive relief effort, delivering substantial relief materials to alleviate the suffering caused by #CycloneDitwah. INS Vikrant, alongside INS Udaygiri, played a pivotal role in delivering essential supplies, including dry and fresh rations, tents, blankets, hygiene kits, and ready-to-eat food. Furthermore, the Indian Air Force deployed its advanced Mi-17 V5 helicopters for logistical support and also dispatched specialized National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel equipped with advanced search and rescue equipment and trained canines. This multi-pronged approach ensures that not only are lives saved through immediate rescue, but also that sustained aid reaches those in dire need of shelter, food, and medical assistance.
The swift, compassionate action displayed by India through “Operation Sagar Bandhu” and the relentless efforts of INS Vikrant’s Chetak helicopters in Sri Lanka truly underscore the depth of India’s commitment to its neighbours. In the face of #CycloneDitwah’s devastation, India has stood firmly by Sri Lanka, showcasing profound regional cooperation and the effectiveness of its disaster management capabilities. This mission is a testament to the powerful bonds of friendship and the crucial role India plays in humanitarian assistance, reinforcing its position as a reliable partner ready to extend a helping hand whenever adversity strikes. We are indeed proud of India’s unwavering dedication to global humanitarian efforts.
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