Himachal CM urges PM Modi to "amend Forest Laws" to support disaster-affected families

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], September 9 (ANI): Himachal Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the state's recent flood devastation.
During the meeting, the State Chief Secretary presented an overview of the current situation, highlighting the urgent need for amendments to forest laws to support disaster-affected families.
Sukhu emphasised that approximately 68% of the state's land is registered as forest land, making it crucial to revisit these laws to provide relief.
"The State Chief Secretary gave a presentation before the PM, the BJP MPs, and our state ministers and MLAs, on the current situation in the state. We told the PM that if disaster-affected families have to be saved, then forest laws need to be amended. Approximately 68% of the state's land is registered as forest land...," said the Himachal CM Sukhu.
Earlier, CM Sukhu stressed the need to amend forest laws to facilitate the allocation of forest land to those rendered landless due to the disaster and urged the Central Government to relax provisions of the Forest Conservation Act, 1980.
He also Sukhu requested a timely special relief package for the state, citing estimated losses of around ₹5,000 crore, which could potentially rise to ₹10,000-12,000 crore.
"We have asked for a timely special relief package for the state. Initial estimate suggests a loss of Rs 5000 crore in the state. This could rise to Rs 10,000-12,000 crores...The PM has assured Rs 1500 crore assistance to the state...," added the Himachal CM.
Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a financial assistance of Rs 1,500 crore for Himachal Pradesh after conducting an aerial survey of the flood-affected areas of the state.
According to the Prime Minister's Office, there will be an advance release of the second instalment of SDRF and PM Kisan Samman Nidhi for the state to deal with the situation.
PM Modi also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh to the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 to the seriously injured in the flood and natural calamity.
After conducting the aerial survey, PM Modi had an official meeting in Kangra to review the relief and rehabilitation measures undertaken as well as assess the damage.
These objectives would be achieved through multiple means, such as rebuilding homes through the PM Awas Yojana, restoring national highways, rebuilding schools, providing relief under the PMNRF, and releasing Mini Kits for livestock.
Recognising the critical need to support the agricultural community, additional assistance will be provided specifically targeted at farmers who currently lack power connections, as per the PMO.
Under the PM Awas Yojana, geotagging of damaged houses will be done. This will facilitate accurate damage assessment and expedite the delivery of aid to those affected.
To ensure uninterrupted education, schools will be able to report and geotag damages, enabling timely assistance under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan.
Construction of recharge structures for water harvesting to help collect and store rainwater will be done. These efforts will enhance groundwater levels and facilitate improved water management.
The Union Government has already sent Inter-Ministerial Central teams to visit Himachal Pradesh to assess the extent of damage, and based on their detailed report, further assistance will be considered.
Prime Minister Modi also met families who were affected by the calamity. He expressed his condolences and deep sorrow to the family members of those who have lost their lives. He stated that the Union Government will work closely with the State Government at this difficult time and extend all possible assistance. (ANI)