CM Bhagwant Mann Leads Relief Effort for Flood-Hit Farmers, Distributes Free Wheat Seeds Worth Rs 74 Crore

In what may be a first in Punjab’s history, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann personally flagged off aid trucks for farmers. On Sunday, in Amritsar, he launched seven trucks loaded with wheat seeds heading to flood-affected districts. These trucks carried not just seeds, but a symbol of hope for thousands of families. Nearly 1.85 lakh quintals of wheat seeds, worth about Rs 74 crore, are being given to farmers free of cost.

Why was this help needed so urgently?

When the floods struck Punjab, fields over five lakh acres were ruined. Standing crops were submerged, and months of effort disappeared overnight. Many farmers, already burdened by loans, faced deep despair. Before the Rabi sowing season began, the state government acted quickly to provide seeds directly to the farmers’ doorsteps without any paperwork or delay.

What did CM Bhagwant Mann say to the farmers?

Speaking with emotion, the Chief Minister said, “Farmers are the backbone of this country. When they feed the nation, we cannot leave them helpless in tough times. This Rs 74 crore is not just money—it is our respect for their hard work.” He reminded everyone that Punjab’s farmers played a vital role in the Green Revolution and now deserve full support from the government.

How severe was the flood damage across Punjab?

The floods caused massive destruction across 2,300 villages, affecting over 20 lakh people and taking 56 lives. Nearly seven lakh people lost their homes and were forced into relief camps. Schools, hospitals, and homes collapsed. Around 3,200 government schools and 19 college buildings were destroyed, along with 1,400 clinics and hospitals, leaving people without education and medical help.

What steps is the government taking next?

More than 8,500 km of roads and 2,500 bridges were damaged, cutting off vital connections. The total loss is estimated at Rs 13,800 crore. Yet, Punjab’s farmers have shown remarkable courage—returning to their fields, cleaning the land, and preparing for Rabi sowing. CM Mann said this is just the beginning and promised further compensation, loan relief, and new schemes. “Our farmers are our pride,” he added. “Punjab will rise again.”