The first of the two Indian Air Force (IAF) IL-76 heavy lift transport planes delivered the material, including dry rations, ready-to-eat meals, blankets, mattresses, malted food and water purification kits to the central, eastern and northern parts of the island nation.
The second aircraft will leave for Sri Lanka on Monday, an IAF spokesperson said here.
“To deal with the aftermath of the recent flooding due to heavy rains in Sri Lanka, the Indian government is sending urgent relief assistance for the displaced and affected persons due to this natural calamity,” he said.
India also expressed its solidarity with the Sri Lankan government at the “difficult moment” and said it “stands ready to assist” the island nation and its people to deal with the humanitarian crisis.
Published 14 January 2011, 15:23 IST