Will Punjab Minister's Call for Rs 50,000 per Acre Relief Be Heeded?
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Synopsis
In the wake of devastating floods, Punjab's Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian is calling for an increased compensation of Rs 50,000 per acre to support farmers facing severe losses. With over four lakh acres affected, the demand for immediate relief highlights the urgent need to protect the state's agricultural backbone.
Key Takeaways
- Punjab's Agriculture Minister has requested a compensation of Rs 50,000 per acre.
- Over four lakh acres of agricultural land have been affected by floods.
- Paddy fields are among the worst affected areas.
- Current compensation is insufficient for farmers' losses.
- Immediate support is needed to revive the agricultural economy.
Chandigarh, Sep 4 (NationPress) In a bid for improved compensation, Punjab's Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian has requested the Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan to provide at least Rs 50,000 per acre for the victims of crop loss due to recent floods. This appeal aims for immediate relief and a substantial financial package to counter the severe effects of the floods.
He also emphasized the need for increased assistance to help farmers affected by the inundation of over four lakh acres of agricultural land, which poses a threat to both state and national food security.
Khudian had accompanied Union Minister Chouhan to assess the damages in flood-stricken areas in Amritsar, Gurdaspur, and Kapurthala, displaying the dire situation facing the agricultural sector.
Upon Chouhan's arrival at Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar, Khudian welcomed him, as the minister sought to evaluate the destruction and interact with farmers impacted by the floods.
With reports indicating that more than 4 lakh acres of crops have been damaged, the minister noted that the paddy fields are the most heavily affected, just weeks before the crucial harvesting season. This catastrophe has led to considerable economic losses for farmers and adversely impacted the state's agricultural economy.
Moreover, the rural economy faces additional challenges due to significant losses in livestock.
“Punjab’s vital role in the national food security cannot be overlooked,” Khudian stated, stressing that as an agrarian state, Punjab significantly contributes to the central food supply.
However, the recent floods have wreaked havoc on crops, agricultural infrastructure, and the rural economy.
“The economic backbone of the state is under severe pressure, requiring urgent assistance to rejuvenate the sector and alleviate farmers' distress,” he added.
Expressing his concerns about the current compensation for flood victims, Khudian pointed out that the compensation for crop damage stands at Rs 6,800 per acre, which is inadequate given the scale of the losses endured by farmers.
He urged the central government to raise this compensation to a minimum of Rs 50,000 per acre.
Khudian also called for the prompt release of Rs 8,000 crore from the stalled Rural Development Fund (RDF) and Market Development Fund (MDF) by the Centre.
Additionally, he emphasized that Punjab needs a specialized package to alleviate the effects of the floods and support the state's economy.
Point of View
It is essential to highlight the plight of farmers in Punjab following the catastrophic floods. The appeal for increased compensation is a step towards addressing the farmers' immediate needs while ensuring the stability of the agricultural sector, which is vital for the nation's food security. The government's response will be crucial in determining the future of these affected communities.
NationPress
04/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current crop damage compensation in Punjab?
The current compensation for crop damage stands at Rs 6,800 per acre, which has been deemed insufficient by farmers and officials.
How much compensation is being requested by the Punjab Minister?
Punjab Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian is requesting a compensation increase to at least Rs 50,000 per acre for affected farmers.
What areas were most affected by the floods?
The flood-affected areas include Amritsar, Gurdaspur, and Kapurthala districts, where significant agricultural land has been submerged.
What additional support is being requested from the central government?
The minister is also urging the release of Rs 8,000 crore from the stalled Rural Development Fund and Market Development Fund.
Why is Punjab's agricultural economy important?
Punjab plays a crucial role in the national food security system, contributing significantly to the central food supply.
