Punjab Government’s Historic Relief Package: Largest-Ever Support for Flood-Affected Farmers and Families

The floods this year were very destructive in numerous districts of Punjab, where farmers, rural families, and agricultural laborers have suffered heavy losses. To alleviate the situation, the Punjab Government came out with a relief package at the level of a record, which is regarded as the largest and most efficient compensation campaign in the state's ‍‌history. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann stated clearly that “the government stands with the farmers in their difficult time—not just on paper, but with real action on the ground.”

Under the “Jis Da Khet, Usdi Ret” scheme, farmers are being provided special assistance of ₹7,200 per acre to remove the large amounts of sand deposited on fields after the floods. The crop loss compensation has also been redefined—now, for 26–33% damage, ₹10,000 per acre is given; for 33–75% damage, ₹10,000; and for 75–100% damage, ₹20,000 per acre. Of this, ₹14,900 per acre is being provided directly by the state government, which is considered the highest in the country.

Compensation for damaged houses has also been increased several times. Earlier, only ₹6,500 was given, but now ₹1.20 lakh has been approved for fully damaged houses and ₹35,100 for partially damaged ones. Farmers affected by river erosion will receive ₹47,500 per hectare (₹18,800 per acre).

Additionally, a ₹4.50 crore package has been released for areas affected by soil salinity (sem). The state government has demanded that the Centre increase the assistance amount to ₹50,000 per acre, while terming the Centre’s announced ₹1,600 crore support as inadequate.

This relief package not only provides immediate help but also sets a new benchmark for humanitarian and responsible disaster management in Punjab.