As Sri Lanka is reeling under a severe economic crisis that triggered political turmoil, India came forward with humanitarian assistance to the island nation, official sources said.
India’s High Commission to Sri Lanka, Gopal Baglay remarked that India’s support for Sri Lanka has been significant as both countries share good relations in terms of culture and geographical aspects.
.The Indian diplomat went on to say that focus has been on support for currency by extending credit for fuel and food, energy security, and encouraging Indian investment in the island nation as part of discussions with the Sri Lankan government for post-COVID economic recovery.
A large humanitarian grant assistance consignment worth over Rs. 2 billion from the people of India is scheduled to reach Colombo soon
The consignment, which consists of 9,000 MT of rice, 50 MT of milk powder and more than 25 MT of drugs and other medical supplies, will be handed over by High Commissioner Gopal Baglay to the senior leadership of the Government of Sri Lanka.
The consignment was flagged off from Chennai port by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Thiru M.K. Stalin on 18 May.
This is the first incoming consignment under a larger commitment of 40,000 MT of rice, 500 MT of milk powder and medicines by the Government of Tamil Nadu. This commitment translates to over Rs. 5.5 billion.
The incoming consignment shall be distributed among beneficiaries across the country including Northern, Eastern, Central and Western Provinces by the Government of Sri Lanka.
These beneficiaries cover diverse sections of the society. The assistance from people of India complements multi-pronged efforts undertaken by the Government of India by standing with their brethren in Sri Lanka.
Several private and social organisations from India have sent assistance to Sri Lanka to meet various urgent requirements.
This outpouring of support for Sri Lanka among common Indians is apart from the economic assistance by the Government of India which has been to the tune of around $ 3.5 billion since January this year. In addition, medicines, dry rations etc. have also been sent by the Government of India on grant basis.
