Sri Lanka has honored eight ships of the Indian Navy and other countries that helped in relief and rescue operations after Cyclone Ditavaha in November 2025. More than 600 people died in this natural disaster and there were floods, landslides and huge damage to infrastructure across the country.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya personally thanked the diplomatic officials of the respective countries. Indian Navy’s aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and warship INS Udayagiri were the first to join the relief operations. These ships and their helicopters helped in delivering relief material and rescue operations to the affected areas.

India sent medicines and medical devices

At the time of the cyclone, eight foreign warships were already present in Sri Lanka to participate in the International Fleet Review 2025. Due to the disaster, these ships were immediately deployed in relief operations. Indian ships and helicopters airlifted relief material such as ration, tents, tarpaulins, hygiene kits, essential clothing and water purification kits to the affected areas. Apart from this, 14.5 tonnes of medicines and medical equipment and 60 tonnes of other equipment were also sent.

Indian Air Force’s Mi-17 helicopters remained active in relief and rescue operations for more than two weeks. According to the Disaster Management Center (DMC), Colombo, 644 people have died since November 16 and 175 people are still missing.

India gave relief package to Sri Lanka

India on 23 December 2025 To rebuild Sri Lanka Also announced was a package of US$ 450 million. This includes a grant-based line of credit of $350 million and a grant of $100 million. Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar met top leaders of Sri Lanka and assured them of India’s commitment in the reconstruction of Colombo. This gave hope and support to the affected people.