External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Tuesday said that it was only natural for India to step in and help Sri Lanka during a time of crisis, especially as the island nation recovers from the damage caused by Cyclone Ditwah. He pointed out Sri Lanka’s importance to India under the government’s “Neighbourhood First” and “MAHASAGAR” policies, which focus on helping neighbouring countries during emergencies.

Jaishankar recalled that India had earlier supported Sri Lanka during its severe economic crisis and said New Delhi continues to see Colombo as a close and trusted partner. During his visit to Sri Lanka, the External Affairs Minister met President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and handed over a letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The letter reaffirmed India’s role as a first responder in times of need and announced a reconstruction assistance package worth $450 million for Sri Lanka.

Speaking at a joint press conference in Colombo with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, Jaishankar said that the two sides discussed the damage caused by Cyclone Ditwah and how quickly India’s assistance could be delivered. He said India, as Sri Lanka’s closest neighbour, had a responsibility to step forward during crises, just as it did during Sri Lanka’s economic difficulties.

The External Affairs Minister also spoke in detail about India’s relief efforts under Operation Sagar Bandhu, which began on the very day the cyclone hit Sri Lanka. He said Indian Navy ships, including aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri, were deployed to Colombo and delivered large amounts of relief material. Helicopters were also used to support rescue operations.

Jaishankar said that Indian Air Force MI-17 helicopters operated in Sri Lanka for more than two weeks, while an 80-member National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team arrived to assist in rescue and relief work. The Indian Army also set up a field hospital near Kandy with 85 medical personnel, providing emergency treatment to over 8,000 people. In addition, two mobile emergency medical units were sent to support healthcare needs.

India’s assistance included over 1,100 tonnes of relief material, such as food supplies, tents, tarpaulins, clothing, hygiene kits, water purification equipment, and medicines. Another 60 tonnes of equipment was sent to help with ongoing relief operations.

Looking ahead, Jaishankar said rebuilding and restoring connectivity is a top priority. He explained that the $450 million assistance package includes $350 million in low-interest credit and $100 million in grants, which will be finalised in consultation with the Sri Lankan government. The support will focus on sectors most affected by the cyclone. Jaishankar assured Sri Lanka that India stands firmly with it and expressed confidence that the country will recover strongly from this crisis.