India has handed over two personal watercraft (PWCs), along with safety equipment, to Sri Lanka to strengthen the Sri Lankan Coast Guard’s near-shore search and rescue capabilities, the Indian High Commission said on Sunday. The Defence Advisor presented the equipment to the Director of Operations at the Coast Guard Headquarters in Mirissa, highlighting India’s continued support in enhancing maritime safety.

The move reflects the growing partnership between India and Sri Lanka across multiple sectors. Recently, both nations also reinforced their naval ties through the fourth edition of their joint diving exercise currently taking place in Colombo. The exercise focuses on improving coordination, interoperability, and sharing best practices between the two navies through specialised underwater operations.

India’s naval vessel INS Nireekshak arrived in Colombo on April 21 to participate in the week-long IN-SLN DIVEX 2026 exercise. The ship received a ceremonial welcome, and its Commanding Officer held discussions with senior Sri Lankan naval officials to explore further avenues of cooperation. The visit includes social and cultural interactions aimed at strengthening goodwill between personnel. As part of humanitarian efforts, India will also provide portable medical units capable of handling emergency cases under its Aarogya Maitri initiative.

Further boosting maritime security cooperation, India has announced the supply of 50,000 rounds of 9 mm ammunition to the Sri Lankan Navy. Overall, the ongoing engagements highlight the deepening maritime partnership and shared commitment of both countries toward regional security and stability in the Indian Ocean.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from X@IndiainSL.