India Pledges US$450mn to Sri Lanka for Cyclone Ditwah Recovery

India has committed US$450 million to assist Sri Lanka in recovering from the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced in Colombo after meeting President Anura Dissanayake. The visit, as a special envoy from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, underscores India’s ongoing support and close partnership with Sri Lanka.

India was the first country to respond to the disaster, providing relief supplies, helicopters, medical assistance, and Bailey Bridges to restore key road links. “Recognizing the urgency of rebuilding, Prime Minister Modi directed engagement with the Sri Lankan government to address their immediate priorities,” Jaishankar said.

The assistance package comprises US$350 million in concessional lines of credit and US$100 million in grants. Funds will support the rehabilitation and restoration of roads, railways, and bridges, reconstruction of houses, restoration of health services, revival of agriculture, and initiatives to strengthen disaster response and mitigation.

Sri Lanka’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vijitha Herath, expressed gratitude for India’s support, describing Jaishankar’s visit as a demonstration of India’s steadfast solidarity. He highlighted the historic partnership between the two countries, noting previous assistance amounting to US$4 billion, which included lines of credit for essential goods and petroleum, bilateral currency swaps, and deferment of liabilities.

Herath also acknowledged India’s key role in Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring process, including as Co-Chair of the Official Creditors’ Committee, which facilitated the timely conclusion of negotiations. “On behalf of President Dissanayake, the government, and the people of Sri Lanka, I convey our profound gratitude to Prime Minister Modi, the Government of India, and Dr. Jaishankar for India’s invaluable support in helping Sri Lanka overcome its economic and disaster-related challenges,” he said.

The announcement reinforces the strong bilateral ties between the two nations, rooted in shared history, culture, and geographical proximity, while highlighting India’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka through immediate humanitarian relief as well as longer-term economic and infrastructure recovery initiatives.