Jammu, Sept 19 – In a heartfelt outreach to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, visited the flood-hit region of Badyal Brahmana in R S Pura and reaffirmed the Centre’s unwavering support to the victims of the recent natural disaster.
Speaking directly to flood-affected residents and farmers, Chouhan conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s solidarity with the people of J&K. “In this time of crisis, the Central Government stands shoulder to shoulder with the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he assured.
₹2,499 Crore Disaster Fund Available
The Union Minister urged the J&K administration to make use of the ₹2,499 crore disaster relief fund available under disaster management provisions. He emphasized that if more assistance is needed, the Centre is prepared to extend additional support.
First-Hand Damage Assessment
Upon arrival, Chouhan walked through flooded fields, engaging with farmers and listening to their concerns. This wasn’t a routine protocol visit—it was a moment of human connection, where despair met assurance.
He later addressed a large gathering, where he announced a series of relief and rehabilitation measures, crafted to bring quick relief and long-term recovery for those affected.
Relief Announcements
Here are the key support measures unveiled:
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Immediate PM-Kisan installment to be released for affected farmers.
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MGNREGA entitlement increased from 100 to 150 man-days in flood-hit areas.
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Compensation for domestic animals lost in the floods.
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Construction of damaged homes, with ₹1,30,000 under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, including support for toilets.
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₹76 crore assistance for Self-Help Groups that incurred losses.
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Sand reuse permission granted to farmers on their own fields, pending Mining Department rule relaxation.
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Central support for canal and embankment repairs as proposed by the J&K Government.
The minister confirmed that survey teams from key departments, including Home Affairs, Jal Shakti, Rural Development, and Agriculture, had already assessed the damage and would finalize their reports soon.
A Message of Unity and Hope
Later in Jammu city, the Minister chaired a review meeting with the J&K administration, and reiterated in a press briefing that no effort will be spared to provide aid. “Once the final report is in, we will act swiftly and decisively. Relief will not be delayed,” he affirmed.
