Is Sukhbir Badal Demanding a Rs 20,000-Crore Package for Flood Relief Ahead of PM Modi's Visit?
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Synopsis
As flood-ravaged Punjab prepares for PM Modi's visit, SAD President Sukhbir Badal has made a compelling case for a Rs 20,000 crore aid package and complete loan waivers for farmers. With the agricultural community in crisis, will the government respond to this urgent plea for support?
Key Takeaways
- Sukhbir Badal advocates for significant financial aid for flood relief.
- A complete farm loan waiver is crucial for affected farmers.
- The AAP government has faced criticism for its lack of support.
- An emergency meeting was held to address the flood situation.
- Local committees are receiving financial assistance for relief efforts.
Chandigarh, Sep 7 (NationPress) The President of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), Sukhbir Badal, has urgently called for a financial aid package of Rs 20,000 crores aimed at flood relief and rehabilitation efforts, alongside a complete waiver of farm loans for both farmers and ‘khet mazdoor’ to help them regain stability.
In a statement to the press preceding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the flood-affected region, Badal emphasized, “The nation owes a debt to the courageous farmers of Punjab, who played a pivotal role in the green revolution, transforming the state into the country’s food basket. It is crucial that we support them in this challenging time.” He went on to assert that the proposed Rs 20,000-crore package is vital to compensate for the extensive losses incurred by farmers, which include damage to crops, homes, as well as the destruction of roads and power infrastructure due to the floods.
Badal highlighted that the farmers have been suffering from the harsh impacts of nature for the last three years without any compensation from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government. “This latest setback has severely impacted them. A comprehensive loan waiver is necessary, covering loans from both banks and cooperative societies,” he stated.
As part of the SAD's response, Badal mentioned that the party convened an emergency meeting to assess the flood situation. “We are preparing a strategy to remove sand that has accumulated in agricultural fields, which will involve large-scale earth-moving machinery and volunteers. These efforts will be mobilized in all flood-affected areas,” he said.
When questioned about potential governmental opposition to this initiative, Badal clarified, “Farmers have the right to desilt their fields. I will take the lead on this initiative and am prepared to face any repercussions to protect farmers’ interests.”
During his visit to Shahpur and Nakodar in the Jalandhar district, he spoke with farmers who expressed their dissatisfaction with the state government's lack of support, stating they had to independently reinforce the embankments.
Additionally, Badal has allocated Rs 15 lakh in cash to local village committees for relief efforts, along with 25,000 litres of diesel for the reinforcement of the Gidderpindi, Darewal, Gatta Mundi, Kasi, and Thammuwal ‘bundhs’.
Point of View
Sukhbir Badal's call for a substantial relief package comes at a critical time for Punjab's farmers. The demands reflect an urgent need for government intervention to support those who have faced relentless natural calamities. The situation poses significant questions about the effectiveness of current policies and the government's responsiveness to the plight of farmers.
NationPress
07/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary demand made by Sukhbir Badal?
Sukhbir Badal has demanded a Rs 20,000-crore package for flood relief and a complete farm loan waiver for farmers and 'khet mazdoor'.
Why is the Rs 20,000-crore package necessary?
The package is deemed essential to compensate farmers for their losses, including damaged crops, homes, and infrastructure due to floods.
How has the AAP government responded to farmers' needs?
According to Badal, the AAP government has not provided any compensation to farmers affected by natural disasters over the past three years.
What initiatives is SAD planning to support flood relief?
SAD plans to mobilize volunteers and machinery to desilt fields affected by flood-related sand accumulation.
What financial support has been provided to local committees?
Badal has allocated Rs 15 lakh and 25,000 litres of diesel to village committees for relief operations.
