What Did Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Announce for Farmers?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Punjab CM announces Rs 7,200 per acre for de-silting of fields.
- Compensation for crop loss has been significantly increased.
- Support for fully and partially damaged houses announced.
- Special girdawari to assess damages is currently ongoing.
- Government allocates Rs 4.50 crore for waterlogged areas.
Chandigarh, Sep 29 (NationPress) In a significant move to assist those impacted by floods, Punjab's Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann declared a compensation of Rs 7,200 per acre for the de-silting of sand from farmers' fields under the 'Jisda Khet, Ohdi Ret' scheme.
Concluding discussions in a special session of the Vidhan Sabha, the Chief Minister explained that the 'Jehda Khet, Ohdi Ret' initiative allows farmers to clear sand and silt that have settled in their fields due to flooding, with the option to sell the materials if they wish.
He noted that numerous inundated villages have seen a buildup of sand and silt in their agricultural lands, prompting the decision to permit farmers to clear their fields.
Mann confirmed that under this scheme, farmers will receive Rs 7,200 per acre.
In a compassionate gesture for flood victims, the government has also decided to increase compensation for various levels of crop loss: from 26 to 33 percent crop loss compensation will rise to Rs 10,000 per acre from the previous Rs 2,000; for a 33 to 75 percent loss, it will increase to Rs 10,000 from Rs 6,800; and for 75 to 100 percent crop loss, compensation is now Rs 20,000 per acre, up from Rs 6,800.
Regarding the Rs 20,000 compensation, the Chief Minister mentioned that the government will cover Rs 14,900, marking the highest contribution in the nation. Mann also plans to meet with Union Home Minister Amit Shah to advocate for the state's needs.
The Chief Minister announced that for homes completely destroyed, the compensation will be Rs 1.20 lakh, while for partially damaged homes, it will increase from Rs 6,500 to Rs 35,100.
He stated that the special 'girdawari' to assess the damages is currently underway. Additionally, farmers whose land has been eroded by rivers will receive Rs 47,500 per hectare (approximately Rs 18,800 per acre).
The Chief Minister emphasized the severe crisis the state is facing, welcoming constructive criticism as a form of support that highlights governmental shortcomings.
Furthermore, he announced that Rs 4.50 crore has been allocated for areas suffering from waterlogging. To improve weather prediction, collaborations with IIT Kharagpur, IIT Indore, and Thapar University, Patiala have been established.