Daijiworld Media Network - Colombo

Colombo, Apr 29: India has strengthened its cooperation with Sri Lanka by handing over two Personal Watercrafts (PWCs) along with safety equipment to the Sri Lanka Coast Guard, aimed at enhancing near-shore search and rescue operations.

The equipment was formally transferred by officials from the High Commission of India in Colombo to the Coast Guard’s Director of Operations during a ceremony held at its headquarters in Mirissa.

In a parallel humanitarian effort, India also delivered two advanced BHISM (Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog Hita and Maitri) cubes under its Aarogya Maitri programme. These portable medical units are designed for rapid emergency response and can handle up to 200 patients, equipped with essential medicines and basic surgical tools.

The medical units were transported by the Indian Navy vessel INS Nireekshak, which arrived at the Port of Colombo on April 21 to participate in the fourth edition of the IN-SLN DIVEX 2026, a bilateral diving exercise running until April 27.

As part of the engagement, personnel from INS Nireekshak also joined members of the Sri Lanka Navy for a joint yoga session, promoting wellbeing and camaraderie at sea.

According to the Indian Navy, the IN-SLN Diving Exercise is a key component of the strong maritime partnership between the two nations, reflecting their shared commitment to regional stability and cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region. This collaboration aligns with India’s broader MAHASAGAR vision (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).

Further reinforcing defence ties, the Indian Navy is also set to supply 50,000 rounds of 9 mm ammunition to the Sri Lankan Navy, underscoring continued efforts to enhance maritime security cooperation between the two countries.