Cyclone Ditwah impact: IAF airlifts 65-tonne Bailey Bridge to Colombo amid India’s efforts to aid Sri Lanka
GS2Polity · Governance · IR· India's bilateral relations· Prelims·
Why in news
India launched 'Operation Sagar Bandhu' to provide humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka following the devastating impact of Cyclone Ditwah.
Background
The Indian Air Force (IAF) airlifted a 65-tonne Bailey Bridge from Hindan to Colombo to aid relief efforts. Cyclone Ditwah resulted in at least 479 deaths, prompting the IAF to deploy Mi-17 V5 helicopters for rescue and relief operations.
Facts for Prelims
- FactOperation Sagar Bandhu was launched by PM Narendra Modi on November 28th.
- FactA 65-tonne Bailey Bridge was airlifted from Hindan to Colombo.
- FactIAF Mi-17 V5 helicopters were used to deliver nine tonnes of relief material.
- FactCyclone Ditwah resulted in at least 479 lives lost.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the significance of India's 'Neighborhood First' policy through humanitarian assistance and disaster management cooperation with Sri Lanka.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Strategic leverage: Strengthening maritime security ties through humanitarian assistance
- Logistical capability: Demonstrating IAF's rapid deployment and heavy-lift capabilities in regional crises
Keywords: Humanitarian Assistance · Neighborhood First · Disaster Management · Soft Power · Strategic Autonomy
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