India has handed over three tonnes of essential anti-tuberculosis medicines to Sri Lanka to support treatment and disease-control efforts….reports Asian Lite News Desk
India has handed over three tonnes of essential anti-tuberculosis medicines to Sri Lanka as part of its continued support for the country’s public health system and efforts to strengthen its response to TB.
India’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, handed over the consignment to Sri Lankan Minister of Health and Mass Media Nalinda Jayatissa in Colombo on Wednesday.
“Standing together in the fight against TB! Pleased to hand over a 3-tonne consignment of essential anti-TB medicines to Hon. Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa today,” Jha said in a post on X.
He added that the medicines would support Sri Lanka’s TB treatment and control efforts and contribute to strengthening the country’s response to the disease.
The consignment was dispatched to Colombo on September 28 aboard an Indian Air Force C-130J aircraft. India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said at the time that the move reflected New Delhi’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s public health system.
“India remains committed to supporting Sri Lanka’s public health system. About 3 tonnes of anti-tuberculosis medicines were dispatched to Colombo today aboard an IAF C130J,” Jaishankar said in a post on X.
The latest assistance is part of broader Indian support for Sri Lanka’s healthcare sector, including infrastructure and medical services.
On September 16, construction began on a new two-storey Accident and Emergency Unit at the District General Hospital in Mannar with financial assistance from the Indian government.
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa and High Commissioner Jha attended the foundation stone-laying ceremony for the facility.
The project is being supported through an Indian grant of 600 million Sri Lankan rupees and will include essential medical equipment.
Jha said the new facility would help ensure timely emergency care during the critical “golden hour” following serious injuries or medical emergencies.
“Strengthening Healthcare, Saving Lives! Delighted to join H.E. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Hon’ble Minister of Health and Mass Media Nalinda Jayatissa at the foundation stone laying ceremony for a new two-storey Accident and Emergency Unit at the District General Hospital, Mannar,” Jha said in another post on X.
He described the project as a “true testament” to the enduring partnership between India and Sri Lanka and the two countries’ shared commitment to people-centred development.
The latest medical assistance and healthcare infrastructure project underline India’s continued support for Sri Lanka’s health sector as the two neighbours strengthen cooperation in areas directly affecting public welfare.
