In a move ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to Punjab, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday announced a comprehensive relief package for those hit by the recent floods. Farmers will receive Rs 20,000 per acre for crop damage — which they claim the highest ever announced by any state — while families of the deceased will be given Rs 4 lakh each.
The decisions followed a crucial cabinet meeting chaired by the CM through video conferencing from a hospital, where he is admitted for treatment.
“I am recovering slowly and will be among you soon. My pain is very small in front of your pain. Your elected government stands with you at all times,” Mann said in a video message.
Mann added that his hospital room had been converted into a “control room” where he met top officers, including the Chief Secretary and DGP, to assess the damage and finalise relief measures.
Crop Compensation: Farmers to receive Rs 20,000 per acre for crop losses. Mann said this is the highest compensation announced by any state so far, and cheques will be issued directly.
Relief for Families of the Deceased: Rs 4 lakh financial aid to families of those who lost their lives in the floods.
Loan Exemption: Flood-affected people granted a six-month exemption from repayment of loans taken from cooperative banks and societies, with relief in interest as well.
“ Jiski Zameen, Uski Sand” Policy : Farmers allowed to remove and sell sand/soil deposited on their land by floods without permits till December 31. This is aimed at widening rivers that have shrunk due to sand accumulation.
Survey of Damaged Houses: Families whose homes collapsed or were washed away will be surveyed, and compensation will follow after assessment.
Relief for Animal and Fish Farmers: Compensation to livestock and fish farmers for losses, along with a special vaccination drive for animals.
Health and Sanitation Drive: Fogging machines to be deployed in 1,700 villages and 300 urban areas to prevent disease outbreaks; mobile health clinics and medical teams to provide treatment and medicines in villages.
Repair of Infrastructure: Schools, colleges, and power infrastructure damaged by floods to be repaired on a war footing.
According to official estimates, 1,996 villages across 23 districts remain affected by the floods, impacting nearly 3.87 lakh people and the disaster has claimed 46 lives.
The CM, who cancelled his earlier travel plans after his health deteriorated, assured that no affected family would be left behind in relief and rehabilitation. “The government is with the people of Punjab at every step,” he said.
