Delhi‑Colombo Agreement Enhances Disaster‑Resilient Healthcare in Sri Lanka

A fresh health‑sector MoU signed in Colombo on July 13 links India and Sri Lanka in a climate‑resilient healthcare pact. High Commissioner Santosh Jha and Sri Lankan Health Ministry Secretary Dr. Anil Jaswinge confirmed a 60‑crore LKR grant that will fund the installation of advanced medical technology at Deniyaya Base Hospital.

Targeted upgrades include the emergency department, operating theatres, a high‑dependency unit and a specialised baby‑care unit, all of which will receive modern monitoring and therapeutic devices. The project also aims to shift the facility to a safer, disaster‑proof campus.

The grant is a component of a $45 million aid package pledged after Cyclone Dithuwasu, underscoring India’s strategic focus on regional stability. Previous contributions this year have ranged from a $5.5 million military equipment grant for UN peace‑keeping to personal watercraft for the Sri Lankan Coast Guard and “Bhishma” intensive‑care modules delivered through the Arogya Maitri initiative.