India has been a long-standing supporter of Sri Lanka, providing critical assistance during times of crisis. On Sunday, a large consignment of humanitarian aid worth over Rs 2 billion was handed over to the island nation.
The aid, which includes 9,000 metric tons of rice, 50 metric tons of milk powder, and over 25 metric tons of drugs and other pharmaceutical supplies, is a significant boost to Sri Lanka's struggling economy.
Former Sri Lankan cabinet Minister Namal Rajapaksa expressed his gratitude to India for the aid, saying, “Grateful to PM Narendra Modi, Hon CM MK Stalin & the people of India for the aid & essential items sent to LKA. India certainly has been a big brother & a good friend to LKA throughout the years, something that we will never forget! Thank you,” in a tweet.
Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe also thanked the people of India for the assistance, saying, “Sri Lanka today received Rs 2 Billion worth of humanitarian aid, including milk powder, rice, and medicines from India. Our sincere gratitude to the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Hon. @mkstalin and the People of India for the support extended,” in a tweet.
India's assistance to Sri Lanka comes as the island nation struggles to cope with its dire economic scarcity, with food and fuel shortages, soaring prices, and power cuts affecting a large number of people.
Earlier, the Indian government had sent out dry rations, medicines, and other essential commodities to Sri Lanka on a grant basis. At this time of crisis, India has pledged nearly USD 3 billion to cash-strapped Colombo through currency swaps, credit lines for essential goods, and repayment of loans since January 2022 to help Sri Lanka amid one of the worst economic crises in history.
