Will Sisodia Secure Rs 60,000 Crore for Punjab Flood Relief Before PM Modi’s Visit on Sep 9?
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Synopsis
As Punjab grapples with the aftermath of devastating floods, AAP leader Manish Sisodia presses the Centre for urgent financial assistance. With PM Modi's visit approaching, the demand for a substantial Rs 60,000 crore relief package adds urgency to the situation. Will the government respond in time to ease the plight of the affected farmers?
Key Takeaways
- Urgent financial assistance of Rs 60,000 crore is needed for Punjab flood relief.
- The Centre's response has been criticized as inadequate amidst the crisis.
- Farmers are facing severe challenges with crop damage and soil degradation.
- The Punjab government is formulating policies to address sand removal in affected areas.
- AAP leaders are actively involved in ground-level relief efforts.
New Delhi, Sep 7 (NationPress) Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Manish Sisodia expressed concerns on Sunday, stating that the Centre has yet to implement any significant measures to assist Punjab following the catastrophic floods, despite Prime Minister Narendra Modi planning to visit the state on September 9.
He called upon the Union government to declare immediate relief, emphasizing that Rs 60,000 crore is officially owed to the residents of Punjab.
During a press conference in Chandigarh, Sisodia remarked, “My evaluation indicates that extensive relief is necessary due to the severe flooding. It is encouraging that PM Modi is visiting Punjab and has even communicated with CM Bhagwant Mann over the phone. Home Minister Amit Shah also spoke with CM Mann, and Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan visited Punjab, yet no tangible actions have been taken. The people of Punjab are looking for assistance today—the Centre must act promptly.”
The AAP leader, who recently visited flood-affected areas including Tarn Taran and Kapurthala, pointed out the dual challenges faced by farmers: crop devastation and the viability of the upcoming Kharif season.
“In some agricultural fields, over two feet of sand has accumulated. Farmers are questioning how this will be cleared. If it remains, it will lead to permanent damage to fertile land,” he stated.
Sisodia disclosed that the Mann-led state government is formulating a special policy to enable farmers to remove sand from their own fields.
“Current government regulations hinder mining without authorization, but CM Mann has promised that this issue will be resolved. This policy will be formally announced within the next 2-3 days, once he recovers from his illness,” he continued.
He further noted that AAP leaders and volunteers are actively participating in grassroots relief initiatives.
“I personally visited numerous villages to uplift our teams' spirits and gather feedback. The prevailing concern is uniform—farmers are anxious about their crops and their future,” Sisodia emphasized.
Point of View
The situation in Punjab demands immediate attention and action. The delayed response from the Centre raises questions about the prioritization of state needs in times of crisis. As the flood-affected farmers await aid, the government's commitment to recovery efforts is under scrutiny. It's crucial for leadership to demonstrate accountability and support during such challenging times.
NationPress
07/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the amount demanded by Sisodia for flood relief?
Sisodia has demanded Rs 60,000 crore for flood relief in Punjab.
Why is there urgency for flood relief in Punjab?
The urgency stems from the extensive damage caused by floods and the upcoming Kharif season, which puts farmers at risk.
What has been the Centre's response so far?
According to Sisodia, the Centre has not taken significant steps to support Punjab during the crisis.
What are the farmers' primary concerns?
Farmers are worried about crop damage and the accumulation of sand in their fields, which threatens their fertile land.
What actions is the Punjab government planning?
The Punjab government is working on a policy to allow farmers to clear sand from their fields.
