What Measures is PM Modi Taking to Assist Flood-Impacted Himachal and Punjab?
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Synopsis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visits to Himachal Pradesh and Punjab reveal significant government support for flood recovery. With a focus on financial aid and rehabilitation, the initiatives aim to restore affected communities and infrastructure, ensuring timely assistance to those in need. Discover the key actions being taken to rebuild and support victims of this natural disaster.
Key Takeaways
- Financial aid packages have been announced for flood-affected states.
- Ex-gratia payments for victims' families highlight the government's commitment.
- Reconstruction efforts will focus on housing and infrastructure.
- Support for the agricultural community is a priority.
- Long-term assistance will be provided for orphaned children.
New Delhi, Sep 9 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi undertook consecutive visits to Himachal Pradesh and Punjab on Tuesday to assess the devastation caused by flooding due to heavy rainfall.
He conducted an aerial inspection of the areas impacted by floods and landslides in Himachal Pradesh. Subsequently, the Prime Minister convened an official meeting in Kangra to evaluate the relief and rehabilitation initiatives in place and to gauge the overall extent of the damage.
A financial package amounting to Rs. 1,500 crore was announced for the hilly state, coupled with the advance release of the second instalments under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) and PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi.
In Punjab, he also carried out an aerial survey of the flood-affected regions. During an official meeting in Gurdaspur with local officials and elected representatives, he reviewed the relief and rehabilitation measures and assessed the damage inflicted upon the state.
Prime Minister Modi declared financial support of Rs. 1,600 crore for Punjab in addition to the Rs. 12,000 crore already available to the state. An advance release of the second instalment of SDRF and PM Kisan Samman Nidhi will be executed here as well.
The Prime Minister interacted with families affected by the floods and landslides. He expressed his condolences to those who lost loved ones in the disaster and announced ex-gratia payments of Rs. 2 lakh for bereaved families and Rs. 50,000 for those seriously injured.
Children orphaned by the disaster will receive long-term assistance through the PM CARES for Children scheme.
Comprehensive reconstruction of homes will occur under the PM Awas Yojana, with geotagging of affected houses, while the restoration of national highways, rural roads, and government schools will be facilitated through the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan.
In recognition of the urgent need to support the agricultural sector, additional assistance will be directed towards farmers lacking power connections.
Support will be extended in the form of borewell repairs (RKVY mode) and solar-powered irrigation as per the guidelines of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.
The states will receive rehabilitation assistance through the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) and the distribution of livestock mini-kits.
Furthermore, the construction and repair of rainwater harvesting structures under Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari will also take place.
Inter-ministerial teams have been dispatched to both states for comprehensive damage assessments, with further support to be determined based on their findings.
Prime Minister Modi commended the prompt actions and extensive efforts made by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the Army, and state administrations.
He assured that the Union Government will maintain close coordination with the states to accelerate all relief and restoration activities.
Recent reports indicate that Himachal Pradesh has suffered total losses estimated at around Rs. 4,122 crore due to cloudbursts, flash floods, and landslides from June 20 to September 8.
Meanwhile, the flood damage in Punjab has been assessed at over Rs. 13,289 crore, significantly impacting approximately 1.76 lakh hectares of farmland and causing widespread infrastructural damage.
Point of View
It is crucial for the government to respond swiftly and effectively to natural disasters. The measures being implemented in Himachal Pradesh and Punjab highlight the importance of immediate assistance and long-term rehabilitation strategies. As the nation rallies to support affected families, it is evident that coordinated efforts can lead to resilient recovery and rebuilding.
NationPress
09/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What financial aid has been announced for flood relief?
Prime Minister Modi announced a relief package of Rs. 1,500 crore for Himachal Pradesh and Rs. 1,600 crore for Punjab, in addition to previously allocated funds.
How will the government support affected families?
Ex-gratia payments of Rs. 2 lakh will be provided to families of the deceased and Rs. 50,000 for those seriously injured.
What rehabilitation measures are being introduced?
Reconstruction of homes under PM Awas Yojana, restoration of infrastructure, and additional support for farmers are key rehabilitation measures.
How is the agricultural sector being supported?
Additional assistance will be directed towards farmers lacking power connections, with support for borewell refurbishment and solar-powered irrigation.
What is the government doing for orphaned children?
Orphaned children will receive long-term support through the PM CARES for Children scheme.
