Will Flood-Hit Farmers in Punjab Receive Free Wheat Seeds?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, the Central government is providing free wheat seeds worth Rs 44.40 crore to support Punjab's farmers affected by floods. This initiative is crucial for their recovery ahead of the rabi season. Discover how this timely assistance could reshape the agricultural landscape in Punjab and provide hope to struggling farming families.
Key Takeaways
- Free wheat seeds worth Rs 44.40 crore to support flood-hit farmers.
- Eligibility for farmers with less than five acres of land.
- Initiative funded under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana.
- Political tensions exist between BJP and AAP.
- Focus on long-term agricultural recovery and farmer welfare.
Chandigarh, Oct 10 (NationPress) The Central government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is set to provide free wheat seeds valued at Rs 44.40 crore to farmers in Punjab, as announced by state BJP General Secretary Anil Sarin on Friday.
"This prompt action is a crucial support for farmers gearing up for the upcoming rabi season, who have suffered significant crop losses due to recent floods," he noted.
Under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY), farmers owning less than five acres will be eligible to receive wheat seeds recommended by Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) at no cost.
"In this challenging time, as flood-affected Punjab works to recover, Prime Minister Modi has introduced a substantial relief package through the distribution of certified wheat seeds to small and marginal farmers," Sarin stated.
He expressed appreciation to Prime Minister Modi and the Central government for their timely and thorough assistance to Punjab's farmers impacted by floods, highlighting the Modi government's commitment to raising the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops, regular Kisan Samman Nidhi payments, and ongoing collaboration with state authorities to protect farmers' rights.
"While the Punjab government has struggled to safeguard farmers during the flooding, it is the Modi administration that steps in as their true protector. The Centre's support has rekindled hope among countless farming families who have been affected," he added.
Reaffirming the BJP's dedication to farmers in the state, Sarin emphasized that the recent actions of the Modi government demonstrate its commitment not only to immediate flood relief but also to long-term agricultural sustainability and farmer welfare.
In response, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab reacted to Governor Gulab Chand Kataria's remarks, which claimed that the state government was misusing the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) and that no changes in its usage rules were feasible.
AAP spokesperson Neel Garg criticized both the Governor's remarks and the Centre's position as unwarranted, asserting that the SDRF is fundamentally the State Disaster Relief Fund. Garg emphasized that the statements from the Home Ministry and the Governor suggest that the Centre is not inclined to amend SDRF rules.
He urged the Central government to reconsider its rigid stance, stating that "if we genuinely aim to assist the people, the rules must be revised to meet current needs."
He called upon the Central government to adopt a more people-focused approach and to revise the rules promptly to benefit the residents of Punjab.
Point of View
It's vital to recognize that the recent initiative by the Central government to distribute free wheat seeds to flood-affected farmers in Punjab is a significant step towards agricultural recovery. While political tensions exist, the focus should remain on the welfare of farmers who rely on timely assistance to rebuild their livelihoods.
NationPress
11/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total value of free wheat seeds being provided?
The Central government is providing free wheat seeds valued at Rs 44.40 crore.
Who is eligible to receive the free wheat seeds?
Farmers owning less than five acres will be eligible to receive the seeds free of cost.
What program is funding this initiative?
The initiative is funded under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY).
How has the AAP responded to the situation?
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) criticized the Centre's stance on the SDRF and called for rule amendments to better assist the people.
What are the long-term implications of this initiative?
This initiative aims to provide immediate relief and foster long-term agricultural resilience and farmer welfare in Punjab.
