COLOMBO/CHENNAI:  Indians contributed humanitarian aid worth approximately USD 9.5 million (SLR 3.4 billion) to Sri Lanka, which going through a severe economic crisis.

The government of Tamil Nadu provided 16,594 MT of rice, 200 MT of milk powder, and around 38 MT of medicines Sri Lanka.  Indian High Commissioner Gopal Baglay handed over the supplies, donated by the Tamil Nadu government.

The humanitarian relief supplied were handed over to Foreign Minister Ali Sabry, Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella, and MP Jeevan Thondaman and Ceylon Workers' Congress.  Senthil Thondaman is the leader of the Indian-origin Tamils in the central hills.

"This was the third such shipment from the Government of Tamil Nadu, which has contributed a total of 40,000 MT of rice, 500 MT of milk powder, and more than 100 MT of medications worth more than USD 22 million," according to the Indian High Commission in Colombo. The drugs included 25,000 doses of anti-rabies vaccination, which is now in low supply.

"The people of India have been complementing the Government of India's efforts in standing with the people of Sri Lanka to fulfill their different needs," the Indian delegation said.

During this year, the Indian people, including independent initiatives of several hospitals, Indian community organisations, and several other entities based in India, have generously provided nearly USD 3.8 billion in financial support to the people of Sri Lanka.

"The people and Government of India joining together for the cause shows the enduring people-to-people connection between India and Sri Lanka, as well as the mutual care and concern for each other," the High Commission said.

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