PM Modi Announces ₹1,500 Crore Relief Package for Flood-Hit Himachal Pradesh:

Chandigarh, Sept 9: In response to the devastating floods and landslides that have wreaked havoc across Himachal Pradesh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced an immediate financial relief package of ₹1,500 crore. The announcement came after an aerial survey of the severely affected districts of Mandi and Kullu, followed by a high-level review meeting held in Kangra. Expressing deep concern over the loss of lives and widespread destruction, PM Modi assured the people of Himachal Pradesh of full support from the Central government. He emphasized a "multi-dimensional approach" to ensure both immediate relief and long-term rehabilitation for the flood-hit regions. As part of the relief measures, the Prime Minister also announced an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for those injured, to be provided from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF). The ₹1,500 crore assistance will include an advance release of the second installment of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) and PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, helping both the general public and farmers hit hard by the natural calamity. Focus on Infrastructure & Agriculture The rebuilding plan includes several key initiatives: Reconstruction of damaged homes under PM Awas Yojana, with geo-tagging to ensure accurate assessments and faster aid delivery. Restoration of national highways, schools, and essential infrastructure. Immediate aid to farmers without power connections and mini kits for livestock to revive the agricultural sector. Geo-tagging of schools under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan to ensure uninterrupted education support. Construction of water recharge structures to improve rainwater harvesting and groundwater levels. Modi highlighted the importance of not only restoring what was lost but building back better, with stronger, more resilient infrastructure. Massive Losses Across the State According to official data, Himachal Pradesh has reported losses exceeding ₹4,500 crore. So far, 370 lives have been lost, 41 people remain missing, and widespread damage has been recorded. The Public Works Department (PWD) has borne the brunt, with roads and bridges severely impacted by 136 landslides, 95 flash floods, and 45 cloudbursts. Central-State Coordination in Full Swing Inter-ministerial central teams have already been deployed to conduct detailed damage assessments. PM Modi assured that additional support will be considered based on their reports and that the Centre will work in close coordination with the state government to bring relief to affected families and rebuild the region.

NEWS