Why in News?
In December 2025, India announced a $450 million relief and reconstruction package for Sri Lanka following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah, reaffirming India’s Neighbourhood First Policy and First Responder role in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Description:
Operation Sagar Bandhu:
- Launched to address the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah.
- Impact of Cyclone Ditwah: Claimed over 640 lives, destroyed hundreds of buildings, and displaced approximately 200,000 people.
- India’s Financial Pledge: A $450 million reconstruction package.
- Infrastructure: Restoration of road, railway, and bridge connectivity; reconstruction of fully and partially damaged houses.
- Sectors: Support for health, education, and agriculture (addressing potential food shortages).
Strategic & Diplomatic Significance:
- Reinforces India’s Neighbourhood First and SAGAR doctrine (Security and Growth for All in the Region).
- “First Responder”: India’s role in the region under its “Neighbourhood First” policy.
Cyclone Ditwah:
- Cyclone Ditwah, located off Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, weakened into a deep depression.
- The name “Ditwah” means “lagoon” and was suggested by Yemen. It specifically refers to the Detwah Lagoon on Socotra Island, Yemen.
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