Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a comprehensive relief package of ₹1500 crore for flood-affected areas of Himachal Pradesh during his visit to assess monsoon damage in the state. The announcement came after an aerial survey of affected regions and meetings with disaster-hit families.
The Prime Minister declared ex-gratia payments of ₹2 lakh each for families of deceased victims and ₹50,000 for seriously injured persons. He assured affected families of all possible assistance from the central government during this difficult period.
Comprehensive relief measures announced
Following his aerial survey and official meeting in Kangra to assess damage and review relief operations, PM Modi outlined several immediate and long-term support measures:
Immediate Financial Support:
- ₹1500 crore relief package for the state
- Advance release of SDRF funds
- Early release of second installment of PM Kisan Samman Nidhi
- Relief from PM National Relief Fund
Infrastructure and Housing:
- Approval under PM Awas Yojana for damaged houses
- Geotagging of damaged houses for accurate assessment
- Rehabilitation of National Highways
- Construction of rainwater harvesting and recharge structures
Agricultural Support:
- Special assistance for farmers without electricity connections
- Mini kits for livestock
- Enhanced support for agricultural community
Education Continuity:
- Schools can report and geotag damage for timely assistance under Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan
- Ensuring uninterrupted education services
Central government’s commitment
The Prime Minister emphasized that the central government has already sent inter-ministerial central teams to assess damage, and further assistance will be considered based on their detailed reports. “The central government will work together with the state government during this difficult time and provide all possible assistance,” Modi stated.
He praised the efforts of NDRF, SDRF, Army, state administration, and other service-oriented organizations in immediate relief and rescue operations. The central government will further review assessments based on the state’s memorandum and central teams’ reports.
Emotional moment with orphaned baby
In a touching moment during his visit, PM Modi met 11-month-old Nitika at Gaggal Airport, who was orphaned in the Saraj valley disaster in Mandi district. The child lost her parents and grandmother in the floods and is now being cared for by her aunt.
The Prime Minister was seen holding baby Nitika, gently stroking her cheeks, and playing with her for some time, providing a human touch to the official relief efforts.
Advance payments and comprehensive support
The Prime Minister announced that all types of assistance under disaster management rules, including advance payments to states, are being provided. The central government acknowledged the severity of the situation and assured that every effort will be made to address the crisis.
Water conservation efforts will be strengthened through the construction of recharge structures for rainwater harvesting and storage, which will help improve groundwater levels and promote better water management in the region.
This visit demonstrates the central government’s commitment to supporting Himachal Pradesh in its recovery from one of the worst monsoon disasters in recent memory, combining immediate relief with long-term rehabilitation measures.
