Did PM Modi Announce Financial Aid of Rs 1,500 Crore for Disaster-Affected Himachal?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Financial assistance of Rs 1,500 crore announced for Himachal Pradesh.
- Ex gratia payments of Rs 2 lakh for deceased families and Rs 50,000 for the seriously injured.
- Plans for reconstruction through PM Awas Yojana and other initiatives.
- Geo-tagging of damaged houses to aid in effective relief distribution.
- Support for the agricultural sector and water management improvements.
Kangra (Himachal Pradesh), Sep 9 (NationPress) On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the disaster-affected regions of Himachal Pradesh, where he assessed the extensive damage caused by cloudbursts, heavy rains, and landslides. During his visit, he declared a substantial financial assistance package of Rs 1,500 crore for the state.
In a compassionate gesture, PM Modi also announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh to the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for those seriously injured due to the natural calamities.
Conducting an aerial survey of the affected areas, PM Modi subsequently convened an official meeting to evaluate the ongoing relief and rehabilitation efforts, as well as the overall damage in Himachal Pradesh.
Ahead of the second instalment release of the SDRF and the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, he emphasized the importance of a comprehensive strategy to help the region and its people recover. Plans include rebuilding homes through the PM Awas Yojana, restoring national highways, repairing schools, providing relief through the PMNRF, and distributing mini-kits for livestock.
Recognizing the urgent need for support in the agricultural sector, additional resources will be allocated specifically for farmers who currently lack power connections.
As part of the PM Awas Yojana, geo-tagging of damaged houses will be implemented to facilitate accurate damage assessments and expedite aid delivery to affected individuals, according to an official statement.
To maintain educational continuity, schools will be enabled to report and geo-tag damages, ensuring timely assistance under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan.
Measures will also be taken to construct recharge structures for water harvesting, aiming to collect and store rainwater, improve groundwater levels, and enhance water management.
The Union government has dispatched Inter-Ministerial Central teams to Himachal Pradesh to evaluate the damage, and based on their detailed report, further assistance will be considered.
During his visit, the Prime Minister met with families affected by the disaster, expressing his condolences and deep sorrow for those who lost their lives.
He ensured that the Centre will collaborate closely with the state government during this challenging period to extend all possible support.
Furthermore, PM Modi confirmed that all assistance under disaster management regulations is being mobilized, including advance disbursements to the states.
He commended the efforts of the personnel from the NDRF, SDRF, the Indian Army, the state administration, and other service organizations for their dedicated response to immediate relief needs.
The Central government will continue to assess the situation based on the state’s memorandum and the reports from the Central teams.
PM Modi acknowledged the severity of the situation and reassured that the Central government is committed to addressing the crisis effectively.