Should Punjab CM Revise Centre's Relief Norms for Climate Disasters?

Ferozepur (Punjab), Sep 2 (NationPress) Expressing serious concern about the insufficient compensation provided to individuals suffering losses from natural disasters, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday called for a significant revision of the relief standards set by the Centre.

During his visit to flood-stricken areas in Ferozepur district, where he traveled by boat to assess the situation firsthand, the Chief Minister noted that while the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) has adequate resources, the guidelines established by the Ministry of Home Affairs are grossly inadequate for compensating farmers, livestock owners, and other vulnerable groups for their extensive losses.

He highlighted the unrealistic nature of the current compensation norms, stating that the amount allocated per acre for farmers' losses is far too low, especially considering the rising costs of agricultural inputs.

While visiting Gatti Rajo ki village, he remarked on the severe damage to crops nearing harvest and insisted that at least Rs 50,000 per acre should be granted to farmers affected by the floods.

The Chief Minister also disclosed that he has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, requesting an increase in ex-gratia for families of deceased individuals from Rs 4 lakh to Rs 8 lakh. He further proposed raising compensation for loss of limbs or eyesight, from the current Rs 74,000 for disabilities between 40 and 60 percent to Rs 1.50 lakh, and from Rs 2.50 lakh to Rs 5 lakh for disabilities exceeding 60 percent.

Mann reiterated that he has consistently raised the issue of increasing relief payments with the Union government.

After a recent conversation with Prime Minister Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the Chief Minister informed them about the dire situation and emphasized the state government's commitment to assisting flood victims through comprehensive rescue and relief efforts.

However, he expressed frustration over the federal restrictions that hinder their ability to provide adequate support to those affected by this natural disaster, stating that a more liberal approach from the Union government is necessary to properly address the needs of flood victims during this critical time.

According to Mann, the floods have impacted over 1,300 villages statewide, affecting millions of residents. The heavy monsoon rains and dam water releases have caused widespread flooding across more than 10 districts. He cautioned that the situation may worsen in the coming days, with approximately three lakh acres of farmland, particularly paddy fields, inundated, leading to catastrophic crop losses just weeks before harvest.

Additionally, the Chief Minister noted the significant loss of livestock, which is critically affecting rural families dependent on dairy and animal husbandry for their livelihoods.