Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday visited Himachal Pradesh to review the damage caused by heavy rains, cloudbursts, and landslides. During his visit, he announced a financial assistance package of Rs 1,500 crore for the state to help in relief and rehabilitation efforts.
The Prime Minister conducted an aerial survey of the affected regions to assess the situation firsthand. Later, he conducted an official meeting to review the ongoing rescue, relief, and rehabilitation measures being carried out by the state and central authorities.
Along with the relief package, PM Modi announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives in the disaster and Rs 50,000 for those seriously injured. He also said the Centre would release the second installment of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) in advance, along with funds under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme.
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Emphasising a multi-dimensional approach to recovery, the Prime Minister said efforts will include rebuilding damaged houses under the PM Awas Yojana, repairing national highways, reconstructing schools, and providing relief through the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF). Farmers without power connections will receive special support, while livestock owners will be provided mini kits.
Geo-tagging of damaged houses and schools will be carried out to ensure quick assessment and timely delivery of aid. To improve water management, recharge structures for rainwater harvesting will also be built, which will help restore groundwater levels.
The Union government has already sent Inter-Ministerial Central teams to assess the full extent of the damage.
PM Modi also met families affected by the calamity and expressed his condolences. He assured them that the central government would extend full support to Himachal Pradesh during this difficult time.
He praised the efforts of the NDRF, SDRF, the Indian Army, and state authorities for their tireless work in rescue and relief operations.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and said the Centre would continue to work closely with the state to bring people’s lives back to normal.
(With IANS Inputs).
