PM Modi Comforts Disaster Victims in Himachal, Announces Rs 1500 Crore Relief Package
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at Gaggal Airport in Kangra to assess the damage caused by recent heavy rains in Himachal Pradesh. He brought together both ruling party and opposition leaders, consoling disaster victims and urging political unity to tackle the crisis. During an aerial survey, Modi personally witnessed the extensive destruction and emphasized the need for collaborative efforts during this critical time.
PM Modi announced a special assistance package of Rs 1500 crore for Himachal, along with further aid based on central team reports. He also announced the immediate release of advance payments from the SDRF and Kisan Samman Nidhi, extended benefits under the housing scheme, and compensation of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for those injured.
The Prime Minister’s visit brought relief to the disaster-stricken state, which has suffered from cloudbursts at nearly 50 locations. Full recovery is expected to take decades.
The visit also provides the BJP an opportunity to counter Congress’s allegations of the Centre’s negligence, as the opposition has repeatedly raised concerns over Himachal’s neglect during the disaster. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu openly highlighted the state's challenges and expressed optimism about receiving the promised Rs 1500 crore special relief fund, separate from the usual disaster assistance.
Known to consider Himachal his second home, PM Modi is familiar with the state’s issues, having served as BJP in-charge in the 1990s. His visit is seen as a political message transcending party lines to focus on disaster relief and recovery. This move is expected to accelerate aid and support to the affected people of Himachal Pradesh.
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