India Strengthens Maritime Cooperation with Sri Lanka by Providing Relief Materials and Safety Equipment

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Narendra Jijhontiya

India Strengthens Maritime Cooperation with Sri Lanka by Providing Relief Materials and Safety Equipment

Colombo, April 27: India has enhanced its support to Sri Lanka by delivering two personal watercraft (PWCs) and safety gear during a ceremony at the Sri Lanka Coast Guard headquarters on April 26.

The Indian High Commission in Colombo announced this initiative on the social media platform ‘X’, stating that India aims to bolster Sri Lanka’s capabilities in search and rescue (SAR) operations along its coastline.

The Defense Advisor of the Indian High Commission presented the equipment to the Director of Operations at the ceremony held in Mirissa.

In line with its ongoing humanitarian assistance, India had previously provided two BHISM (Bharat Health Initiative for Cooperation, Friendship, and Mutual Aid) cubes to Sri Lanka on April 24. This was part of the ‘Arogya Maitri’ initiative.

These modern portable medical units can handle approximately 200 emergency cases at once. They are designed for rapid relief and come equipped with essential medicines and basic surgical instruments.

The medical units were delivered via the Indian Navy’s diving support and submarine rescue vessel INS Inspector, which arrived at Colombo Port on April 21. The ship is participating in the fourth edition of IN-SLN DIVEX 2026, which runs until April 27.

Furthering this partnership, the crew of INS Inspector conducted a yoga session with the Sri Lankan Navy on Saturday. The aim was to promote mental resilience, balance, and better coordination among personnel operating at sea.

According to the Indian Navy, the IN-SLN diving exercise (DIVEX) is a crucial part of the strong maritime cooperation between India and Sri Lanka. Such programs enhance trust, collaboration, and the shared goal of maintaining stability in the Indian Ocean region. This initiative aligns with the ‘Oceans’ vision for mutual and comprehensive advancement in security and development across regions.

To further strengthen maritime security cooperation, the Indian Navy will also provide 50,000 rounds of 9mm ammunition to the Sri Lankan Navy.

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