India Offers $450m Cyclone Relief Package to Sri Lanka Amid Devastation
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India has pledged a significant cyclone relief package worth USD 450 million to Sri Lanka, as the island nation struggles to recover from the devastating effects of Cyclone Ditwah. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made the announcement during a two-day visit to Sri Lanka, where he met with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath. Jaishankar emphasized that India stands in solidarity with Sri Lanka, which was already grappling with the aftermath of a major economic crisis in 2022. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had directed Jaishankar to engage with the Sri Lankan government to address their priorities, leading to the proposed assistance package. The package, which is currently being finalized in consultation with the Sri Lankan government, includes USD 350 million in concessional lines of credit and USD 100 million in grants. The assistance will focus on key sectors affected by the cyclone, including: * Rehabilitation and restoration of road, railway, and bridge connectivity * Support for the construction of houses that were fully or partially destroyed * Aid for health and education systems, particularly those damaged by the cyclone * Assistance for agriculture, including addressing potential shortages in the short and medium term * Enhancing disaster response and preparedness measures The proposed package is a testament to the strong emotional bonds between the people of India and Sri Lanka, as highlighted by the Ministry of External Affairs.
