Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann vows timely, maximum compensation for flood-affected families

Chandigarh (Punjab) [India], September 12 (ANI): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday chaired a high-level meeting with officials to review the ongoing relief and rehabilitation measures in flood-hit areas of the state.
He interacted with all Deputy Commissioners through video conferencing and directed them to ensure that comprehensive surveys of crop, livestock, and household damage are conducted without delay.
Mann reiterated that Punjab will provide the highest compensation in the country to affected families. "This is not just an announcement. Unlike earlier times when farmers were given meagre cheques of Rs. 26, this time, strict instructions have been issued to DCs to ensure fair and transparent assessment. I belong to a farmer's family; my own fields have been submerged in the past. I know the pain," he said.
The CM announced that special girdawari (damage assessment) reports would be compiled within 30-40 days, with compensation distribution starting within a month. Farmers whose crops are completely damaged will be given Rs 20,000 per acre, while compensation for loss of cattle such as cows and buffaloes will be Rs 37,500 each. Families whose houses have collapsed or become uninhabitable due to flooding will also be covered under the 100 per cent damage category.
Mann further stated that while the SDRF guidelines permit only Rs. 6,800 compensation, Punjab will top it up to ensure affected families receive Rs. 40,000. "This is not the time to be stingy. Relief cheques are ready, and people will start receiving them around Diwali," he assured.
So far, 55 flood-related deaths have been confirmed, and compensation has already been released to 42 families. For the remaining cases, where heirs are missing or bodies are yet to be recovered, the government is making arrangements to settle claims.
The CM also announced the setting up of medical camps and measures for safe disposal of dead livestock. Reviewing the situation along the Ghaggar River, he said the danger level was being closely monitored, and embankments at weak points were being strengthened.
In a stern warning, Mann declared that any officer found guilty of negligence or corruption in relief distribution would face strict action. "This is not the time for politics. Unfortunately, some have tried to politicise the crisis, which is extremely shameful," he remarked.
Highlighting the spirit of Punjab, Mann praised the contributions of social, religious, and voluntary organisations during the floods. "Punjab is a land where no stranger sleeps hungry--then how can we let our own suffer?" he said.
Touching on the larger financial aspect, the CM criticised both the BJP and Congress for their role in past misuse of funds, including RDF allocations. He clarified that the present AAP government has maintained transparency and accountability in the use of public money.
Mann also underlined the failure of crop insurance schemes, which, he said, had not benefited farmers as promised. Meanwhile, the CM Relief Fund has received Rs. 48 crore in contributions from citizens, corporates, and institutions.
The Chief Minister added that he will soon meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah with a detailed report on damages and compensation requirements. "Punjab has shown the nation that we know how to tackle disasters. I will not rest until every affected family receives justice," Mann concluded. (ANI)