### 📈 Strategic Realign: Sri Lanka-India Ties Deepen Amid Economic Recovery

Sri Lanka is witnessing a major diplomatic and economic shift toward India, driven by the current NPP-led government’s pragmatic engagement and a surge in positive public sentiment. • Economic Aid & Budget: In its 2026–27 budget, India allocated INR 4 billion specifically for Sri Lanka, marking a 33% increase YoY. This sustained commitment aims to bolster infrastructure development and investment opportunities as the local economy recovers. • Public Sentiment & Crisis Response: A survey by the Social Scientists Association found that 88% of Sri Lankans identified India as the most effective provider of disaster relief following Cyclone Ditwah. This reflects a growing public trust in India as a reliable regional partner. • Political Realignment: The JVP, a key part of the ruling coalition, has moved away from historical suspicions of India. High-level meetings, including General Secretary Tilvin Silva’s discussions with India’s External Affairs Minister, emphasize growth opportunities and social welfare initiatives. • Diplomatic Strategy: The government is using shared cultural heritage—such as the exposition of the Devnimori Buddha Relics from Gujarat—to soften the transactional nature of economic ties. This approach helps ground the partnership in national identity rather than just financial necessity. • Geopolitical Context: Deepened cooperation serves as a strategic counter to China’s influence in the region, providing Sri Lanka with increased bargaining space to diversify its global partnerships. _Summary based on current reports and provisional survey data._ ---