How Are Himachal Ex-CM Jairam and MP Anurag Supporting the Return of Children to Schools in Disaster-Hit Mandi?

Mandi, July 14 (NationPress) In a bid to promote the return of children to educational settings and restore a sense of normalcy, Jairam Thakur, the Leader of Opposition in Himachal Pradesh, along with former Union Minister Anurag Thakur, visited the Mandi District on Monday. They distributed essential school supplies such as schoolbags and educational materials to children impacted by natural disasters.

The duo handed out bags, books, notebooks, and stationery kits at various schools including Government Excellence Senior Secondary School and Saraswati Vidya Mandir located in Bagsiad village, as well as the Thunag Him Valley Private School and another Government Excellence Senior Secondary School in Thunag village.

Jairam Thakur expressed gratitude towards Anurag Thakur, MP Sikandar Kumar, and other officials for their support to families affected by the disaster. He also urged the utilization of the MP discretionary fund for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of areas devastated by the flash floods that followed multiple cloudbursts on June 30.

Thakur noted that the calamity severely damaged critical infrastructure related to horticulture, agriculture, and floriculture.

“These sectors are the primary means of livelihood for local residents, and the destruction is complete,” he informed the press.

In response to an inquiry, he mentioned that many farmers had taken loans via the Kisan Credit Card system and that the disaster had obliterated their livelihoods. “I urge the government to consider waiving the farm loans for those affected,” he added.

More than 600 homes have been utterly destroyed, and over 1,000 have sustained partial damage, rendering them uninhabitable.

“I appeal to the Chief Minister to classify those uninhabitable houses as completely damaged so that appropriate compensation can be issued,” he stated.

“Additionally, arrangements should be made for land plots for those whose property has been washed away, as they currently have no space to build a new home. I have urged the Chief Minister and district authorities to compile an official record of the affected individuals promptly.

“We are also in contact with numerous benevolent individuals eager to assist those in need. Having an official list will facilitate their efforts,” he said.

Thakur affirmed that schools have reopened in various locations, encouraging families to ensure their children are aware of safety measures while commuting to school until the rains subside. He expressed appreciation for the philanthropists aiding those impacted by the disaster.