New Delhi: The Indian Navy has intensified its humanitarian outreach in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) by deploying four additional warships to Sri Lanka under Operation Sagar Bandhu.
This major relief effort aims to deliver 1000 tons of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) supplies to cyclone-affected regions of Sri Lanka.
The deployment underscores India’s steadfast commitment to supporting neighbouring nations during emergencies, reaffirming strong bilateral ties and regional stability.
Background of Operation Sagar Bandhu
Operation Sagar Bandhu is part of India’s long-standing initiative to provide timely humanitarian, medical, and disaster relief assistance to friendly nations across the Indian Ocean Region. Over the years, the Indian Navy has played a pivotal role in evacuations, medical missions, and post-disaster relief operations, enhancing its reputation as a dependable first responder.
Sri Lanka, having recently been impacted by severe cyclonic conditions, required urgent support to stabilise affected communities. India responded promptly under the principles of Neighbourhood First and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region).
INS Vikrant, INS Udaygiri, and INS Sukanya had earlier rendered aerial and ship-based humanitarian support in the region. The latest deployment further strengthens this ongoing relief architecture.
Four More Indian Navy Ships Mobilised for Relief Mission Under Operation Sagar Bandhu
As part of the continued relief operation, the Indian Navy dispatched:
- INS Gharial
- LCU 54
- LCU 51
- LCU 57
These platforms are equipped for heavy load carriage, amphibious operations, and humanitarian missions, making them ideal for transporting large volumes of relief material.
The deployment significantly scales up India’s relief footprint, enabling faster delivery of essential supplies to Sri Lanka’s worst-hit areas.
Arrival of Ships at Colombo and Trincomalee
The three Landing Craft Utility (LCU) ships reached Colombo in the early hours of 7 December 2025 and immediately commenced the offloading of relief consignments.
Meanwhile, INS Gharial is scheduled to arrive at Trincomalee on 8 December 2025, carrying additional relief supplies for sustained support.
The coordinated arrival at two major Sri Lankan ports ensures efficient distribution across different impact zones.
Operation Sagar Bandhu: 1000 Tons of Relief Supplies for Cyclone-Affected Communities
The relief consignment includes essential commodities aimed at supporting thousands of affected families. The supplies comprise:
- Food items
- Medical provisions
- Clothing
- Shelter and reconstruction material
- Emergency equipment
This large-scale deployment of 1000 tons marks one of India’s most substantial recent humanitarian gestures to Sri Lanka. The distribution will be carried out in collaboration with Sri Lankan authorities to ensure efficient last-mile delivery.
Humanitarian Cooperation Strengthening India–Sri Lanka Relations
India’s assistance goes beyond immediate relief—it reflects the strong people-to-people connection between the two nations.
The relief operation reinforces India’s role as:
- A reliable strategic partner
- A humanitarian first-responder in the Indian Ocean
- A nation committed to shared regional security
The Indian Navy’s active involvement highlights its readiness to mobilize quickly during crises and its dedication to ensuring humanitarian stability in neighbouring countries.
Visuals From the Deployment
The images shared in the official release capture naval personnel loading large sacks of relief materials onto the deployed ships.
These visuals depict:
- Systematic logistics operations
- Crew coordination during cargo handling
- Amphibious platforms readying for departure
Such scenes reflect the scale, urgency, and precision behind the mission.
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