The Indian government continued its large-scale humanitarian support to Sri Lanka by airlifting essential relief material to communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah.
According to the Indian High Commission, around 2,500 stranded Indian nationals were evacuated from Sri Lanka, including more than 400 who were flown out on Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft.
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, which returned to India on Friday, had worked closely with Sri Lankan authorities, carrying out extensive search, rescue and relief operations throughout the affected regions.
During their mission, the teams evacuated approximately 150 people, assisted vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and persons with disabilities, recovered mortal remains, distributed food packets, and restored access to safe water by de-watering contaminated wells.
Indian Air Force helicopters played a key role in frontline aerial operations, safely airlifting affected individuals from Kotmale to Katunayake on Thursday for medical care and further support.
On Friday, Indian MI-17 helicopters evacuated seven survivors and transported 9.5 tonnes of relief supplies, in coordination with Sri Lankan authorities, the Indian mission added.
