PM Modi Surveys Flood Damage, Announces ₹1,500 Crore Aid

The flood situation in Punjab has reached alarming levels, prompting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to conduct an aerial survey of the affected areas on March 5, 2024. This disaster marks Punjab’s worst flooding since 1988, with significant rainfall leading to overflowing rivers, including the Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi. Following the aerial assessment, the Prime Minister also visited Himachal Pradesh to evaluate the ongoing flood crisis.

During his visit, PM Modi is set to hold discussions with senior officials and will chair a review meeting in Gurdaspur, Punjab, to assess the ground situation. He plans to engage directly with flood-affected individuals and teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), as reported by the Press Trust of India (PTI).

In a statement on social media platform X, PM Modi expressed solidarity with those impacted by the floods, asserting, “The Government of India stands shoulder to shoulder with those affected in this tragic hour.” The Prime Minister’s remarks highlight the government’s commitment to providing support during this crisis.

Financial Assistance and Relief Measures

To address the immediate needs of flood victims, PM Modi announced a substantial financial assistance package of ₹1,500 crore for Himachal Pradesh, as reported by ANI. This includes an advance release of the second installment of funds from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and the Prime Minister’s Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme.

Additionally, the Prime Minister declared an ex-gratia payment of ₹2 lakh for families of those who lost their lives due to the floods, alongside ₹50,000 for individuals who sustained serious injuries. These financial measures aim to alleviate the hardships faced by the affected communities and support recovery efforts.

After the aerial survey, PM Modi convened an official meeting in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, to review the relief and rehabilitation strategies currently in place. Plans for recovery involve multiple initiatives, including the rebuilding of homes through the Prime Minister’s Awas Yojana, restoration of national highways, and reconstruction of schools. The government also seeks to provide relief through the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) and distribute mini kits for livestock.

Recognizing the dire circumstances surrounding the agricultural sector, the government plans to offer additional support specifically targeting farmers who currently lack access to power connections. These measures are crucial for ensuring the long-term recovery of the affected regions.

As the flood situation evolves, the Indian government remains committed to providing necessary assistance and resources to those impacted by this natural disaster, reaffirming its dedication to the welfare of its citizens during challenging times.