India’s big announcement for Sri Lanka, 450 million dollar package for reconstruction after cyclone

Operation Sagar Bandhu Package: India has maintained its ‘neighbourhood first’ Under the (Neighborhood First) policy, it has once again played a role of great help to Sri Lanka. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in Colombo on December 23, 2025 and shared Prime Minister Modi’s message of solidarity. Cyclone ‘Ditwa’ India has proposed a huge reconstruction package of $450 million after the massive devastation caused by the earthquake. This assistance was provided under ‘Operation Sagar Bandhu’ This is the next phase of the UN, moving from emergency relief to permanent reconstruction.

$450 million ‘MAGA’ aid package

Foreign Minister Jaishankar clarified that this package includes a concessional line of credit of $350 million and a grant of $100 million. The funds will be used primarily in areas that have been most affected by the cyclone. India’s aim is to get Sri Lanka’s infrastructure back on track so that life can return to normal.

5 main pillars of reconstruction

Under this assistance package, India will work with the Government of Sri Lanka to focus on the following areas-

• Connectivity: Immediate repair and restoration of damaged roads, railway networks and bridges.
• Accommodation: Reconstruction of 75,000 houses completely or partially destroyed in the cyclone.
• Health and Education: Renovation of buildings and equipment of affected schools and hospitals.
• Agriculture: Supply of seeds and equipment so that food crisis does not arise.
• Disaster Management: Development of better warning and preparedness systems for future challenges.

‘Bailey Bridge’ in Kilinochchi inauguration of

During the meeting, the two leaders inaugurated a 120-foot-long dual carriageway ‘Bailey Bridge’ in Kilinochchi district of northern Sri Lanka. Jointly inaugurated. This 110 ton bridge was brought from India by an Indian Air Force aircraft. This bridge will not only restore traffic but will also become a symbol of India-Sri Lanka civilizational friendship.

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India as first responder

Jaishankar stressed that India has launched ‘Operation Sagar Bandhu‘ Started on the day the cyclone hit. Indian Navy ships INS Vikrant and INS Udayagiri delivered relief supplies, while Air Force helicopters carried out rescue operations for two weeks. By sending more than 1100 tonnes of relief material and 14.5 tonnes of medicines, India has fulfilled its ‘Vision Ocean’ (MAHASAGAR) has proven its commitment.