Is PM Modi’s Flood Relief Package Adequate for Punjab?
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Synopsis
In the wake of devastating floods, Punjab's Leader of Opposition, Partap Singh Bajwa, criticizes the Union government's relief package of Rs 1,600 crore, claiming it's grossly inadequate compared to the state's losses of Rs 20,000 crore. Explore the implications of this response on Punjab's farmers and soldiers.
Key Takeaways
- Punjab's loss due to floods is nearly Rs 20,000 crore.
- The Union government's relief package is Rs 1,600 crore.
- This relief amount is less than eight percent of the total losses.
- Bajwa demands release of Rs 60,000 crore in pending funds.
- Punjab plays a crucial role in India's agriculture and defense.
Chandigarh, Sep 9 (NationPress) The Leader of Opposition in Punjab, Partap Singh Bajwa, criticized the Union government on Tuesday for its meager relief announcement of Rs 1,600 crore in response to the catastrophic floods that have ravaged the state. He described this gesture as a “cruel joke”, given that Punjab has incurred losses nearing Rs 20,000 crore. In this context, the Centre’s allocation represents less than eight percent of the necessary funds — a mere fraction of what is urgently needed.
Bajwa reminded the nation that Punjab has consistently played a pivotal role in India's progress. “With merely two percent of the country’s population, it contributes 15-19 percent of India’s wheat and 11-13 percent of its rice, ensuring food security for millions. Furthermore, nearly eight percent of the soldiers who safeguard India’s borders hail from Punjab. It was Punjab that spearheaded the Green Revolution, preventing hunger crises, and it is the sons of Punjab who have shed blood from the freedom struggle to Kargil,” he posted on X.
“Punjab has always prioritized the nation over itself — by filling its granaries, dispatching soldiers to the frontlines, and leading national advancement. However, when Punjab is confronted with one of its gravest disasters, the Centre responds with mere crumbs,” Bajwa stated.
He emphasized, “This issue transcends mere numbers. It’s about dignity and justice. Farmers who once nourished India are now devastated, and families who sent soldiers to defend the nation have lost their homes. Punjab deserves equity, acknowledgment, and authentic assistance — not token gestures.”
Bajwa insisted that the Union government must promptly disburse the Rs 60,000 crore in pending funds that rightfully belong to Punjab under GST compensation, the Rural Development Fund (RDF), and other central initiatives.
He added that releasing these withheld funds without delay would empower Punjab to regain its footing and restore lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure.
Bajwa called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to demonstrate statesmanship, reassess the relief package in accordance with the scale of losses, and release Punjab’s pending dues so that the state, which nourishes and protects India, is not forsaken in its darkest hour.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the emotional and economic turmoil faced by Punjab in light of these floods. The disparity between the state's contributions to national security and agriculture and the meager relief response underscores a pressing need for equitable support. The government must prioritize a fair and adequate response to help Punjab recover and rebuild.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the total loss Punjab faced due to the floods?
Punjab has suffered nearly Rs 20,000 crore in losses from the recent devastating floods.
How much relief did the Union government announce for Punjab?
The Union government announced a relief package of Rs 1,600 crore for Punjab.
What percentage of the total losses does the relief package represent?
The relief package represents less than eight percent of the total losses.
What other financial support did Bajwa demand from the Union government?
Bajwa demanded the immediate release of Rs 60,000 crore in pending funds owed to Punjab.
What contributions has Punjab made to India?
Punjab contributes significantly to India's food security, providing 15-19% of wheat and 11-13% of rice, and has a substantial number of soldiers in the armed forces.
