Punjab Government Releases Rs 186 Crore for Flood-Affected Farmers' Compensation

In a bid to alleviate the hardships faced by farmers reeling from crop losses caused by recent floods, the Punjab government has taken a substantial step by releasing a sum of Rs 186 crore. The move underscores the state's commitment to aiding those affected by the natural disaster.

The announcement was made by Bram Shanker Jimpa, the Minister for Revenue, Rehabilitation, and Disaster Management. According to Jimpa, the funds have been disbursed from the National Disaster Relief Fund to the deputy commissioners of 16 districts across the state. This decision, spearheaded by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, was prompted by the need to provide immediate relief to farmers who have endured extensive crop damage due to the floods that struck during July and August.

Addressing the dire situation, Jimpa revealed that the flood-induced crop damages prompted a comprehensive assessment of affected areas through a special field inspection known as "girdawari." This initiative aimed to quantify the losses and subsequently ensure that the compensation reaches those in need without delay.

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Notably, the farmers' grievances extended beyond the compensation provided, as they voiced concerns over the adequacy of the relief amount. Among their demands, the farmers sought an augmented compensation of Rs 50,000 per acre for the loss of crops. This particular concern has been escalated to the central government for consideration, and the state government has actively engaged in dialogue with the authorities in Delhi to seek an enhancement in the compensation package.

Jimpa highlighted that the released funds have been distributed across various districts in accordance with the extent of damages reported. The breakdown of compensation allocation is as follows:

- Sangrur district: Rs 26.08 crore
- Ferozepur district: Rs 22.44 crore
- Tarn Taran: Rs 26.52 crore
- Patiala: Rs 59.50 crore
- Mansa: Rs 12.92 crore
- Amritsar district: Rs 3.73 crore
- Fazilka: Rs 8.77 crore
- Gurdaspur: Rs 5.84 crore
- Jalandhar: Rs 2.31 crore
- Ludhiana: Rs 2.31 crore
- Moga: Rs 3.99 crore
- Ropar: Rs 18.45 lakh
- Pathankot: Rs 64.60 lakh
- Nawanshahar: Rs 1.25 crore
- Fatehgarh Sahib: Rs 1.59 crore
- Mohali: Rs 1.73 crore

Jimpa emphasized that the cumulative compensation amount of Rs 186.12 crore reflects the state government's unwavering commitment to supporting the affected farmers and communities. The funds, he stated, will be dedicated to providing relief not only to farmers but also to other individuals adversely impacted by the floods.

The recent announcement comes after Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann's pledge on August 15 to address the grievances of flood victims promptly and effectively. The state government's proactive stance demonstrates its determination to mitigate the hardships faced by those who have suffered losses due to the calamity.

As the state government continues its efforts to provide relief and rehabilitation, the affected farmers and communities remain hopeful for a resolution that recognizes the extent of their losses and helps them rebuild their lives and livelihoods.

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