Operation Sagar Bandhu: Indian Air Force aircraft arrive in Colombo with relief supplies, will bring back stranded Indians

Cyclone ‘Ditwah’ has caused widespread devastation in Sri Lanka. In this time of crisis, India has extended a helping hand to its neighboring country. According to the Indian Air Force (IAF), C-130 and IL-76 aircraft carrying relief materials have departed from Hindon Air Base near Delhi for Sri Lanka.

Information from the Air Force
These aircraft are carrying 21 tons of relief material, more than 80 NDRF personnel, and 8 tons of equipment. The Air Force announced on Sunday morning that these aircraft, carrying relief supplies, have landed in Colombo. Indian Air Force aircraft are not only delivering relief materials, but the NDRF rescue team is also working to safely evacuate Indians stranded in Sri Lanka.

India’s Initiative
In addition, relief and rescue operations have been intensified in Tamil Nadu. Indian Air Force aircraft have arrived there carrying essential equipment and relief personnel. India has reiterated its “Neighbourhood First” policy by taking this initiative to provide relief to the people affected by the disaster.

Name Given to the Air Force Operation
Indian Air Force aircraft and helicopters are engaged in large-scale humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations. This entire operation has been named Operation Sagar Bandhu. Under Operation Sagar Bandhu, teams are being deployed for immediate rescue operations and relief supplies are being provided.

These Special Helicopters Engaged in Rescue Work
The Indian Air Force has deployed Mi-17 V5 helicopters in Colombo to expedite relief efforts. This will enable faster delivery of aid to the affected areas. Along with this, IAF C-17, C-130, and IL-76 transport aircraft have been kept ready for the large-scale evacuation of Indian citizens.

Ships Departed with This Much Material
According to information shared by the Air Force, C-130 and IL-76 aircraft departed from Hindon Air Base on the night of November 29. These aircraft were carrying 21 tons of relief material and more than 80 NDRF personnel. In addition, specialized equipment has been dispatched to rescue people stranded in difficult-to-reach areas due to floods and storms.

Supplies sent to Sri Lanka
According to the Air Force, the supplies sent to Sri Lanka include essential rations, medicines, medical kits, Bhishma cubes, and other disaster relief equipment. Meanwhile, a C-17 Globemaster transported another NDRF team and heavy equipment from Pune to Chennai.

Will also bring back people from Colombo
This operation was launched to expedite relief efforts in the coastal areas of South India as well. A C-130 aircraft departed from Hindon Airbase on the morning of November 30th with relief supplies. An IL-76 aircraft had already reached Colombo. This team will unload the relief supplies from the aircraft and also bring back stranded Indian citizens.

This aircraft will be sent to Chennai
As additional assistance, another C-17 aircraft is being loaded in Vadodara with an NDRF team and their equipment, which will be sent to Chennai. All airlift missions are being continuously operated to ensure timely assistance in both Sri Lanka and Tamil Nadu. This demonstrates India’s commitment to humanitarian aid.

The Indian Air Force has clarified that it is committed to saving lives and providing assistance to distressed neighboring countries at the earliest possible time. Operation Sagar Bandhu has emerged as a sensitive and humane example of India-Sri Lanka friendship and regional cooperation.