Activists Aid Flood-Affected Farmers in Punjab’s Border Villages

As winter approaches, activists in Punjab have mobilized to assist farmers affected by severe flooding. In border villages, they are helping these farmers sow wheat, a task that initially seemed insurmountable due to the damage caused by recent floods. The activists undertook the challenging work of leveling fields that had accumulated up to 3 feet of silt and sand.

Phases of Support for Farmers

The operation, supported by financial contributions from philanthropists, progressed in three distinct phases. In the first phase, activists provided essential supplies to farmers who had lost their homes and livelihoods. The second phase involved the deployment of 80 tractors and excavators to clear and level the land. Now, in the third phase, they are actively sowing wheat across the affected areas.

According to farmer Mohinder Singh from Teja Ruhela village in the Fazilka district, the support from the farmers’ organization has been crucial. He noted, “It is hard to imagine what would have happened if we did not receive this help.” Currently, nearly 50 acres of land adjacent to the border fence have been leveled, contributing to the overall effort to prepare approximately 800 acres for wheat sowing in 14 border villages.

Financial and Material Contributions

In terms of financial support, the farmers’ organization, known as BKU Ekta Ugrahan, has invested nearly Rs 2 crore (approximately $240,000) for resources such as diesel and wheat seeds. This funding enabled the organization to hire tractors and provide necessary supplies. In total, they distributed 4,700 bags of wheat seeds, each weighing 40 kg, costing Rs 1,250 per bag, specifically for the Fazilka area.

Furthermore, the organization president, Joginder Singh Ugrahan, highlighted the generosity of donors, who contributed not only cash but also substantial material support. This assistance included over 25,000 bags of wheat, 12,000 quintals of green fodder, and numerous items like blankets, clothing, and bedding for those in need across multiple districts, including Fazilka, Ferozepur, and Amritsar.

Despite the late timing of the wheat sowing, the activists remain committed to ensuring that affected farmers can recover from one of the worst floods in decades. With ongoing efforts, they continue to strive for a better outcome for the agricultural community in this region.