NEW DELHI: In the face of devastating floods, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab has set a historic example of service, solidarity, and resilience.
The relief campaign, personally spearheaded by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, reflects a new model of leadership where the government stands shoulder to shoulder with the people in their darkest hour.
According to official figures, 15,688 people have been rescued and moved to safer locations, while 7,144 individuals remain in relief camps.
The disaster has affected over 2.56 lakh people across 1,044 villages, yet the administration launched immediate relief and rehabilitation efforts. CM Mann himself visited Gurdaspur, Sultanpur Lodhi, and Pathankot, assuring families that no one would be left helpless and that compensation will be provided within 15 days through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
Unlike the usual aerial surveys, Mann chose to walk through villages, interact directly with people, listen to grievances, and provide on-the-spot solutions. This hands-on approach reinforced his “People First” policy, boosting confidence and hope among those affected.
Ministers, too, played a pivotal role in the campaign
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Food & Supplies Minister Lalchand Kataruchak toured villages on a motorcycle in Bhua constituency to oversee relief work.
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Revenue Minister Hardeep Mundian went door to door in Sultanpur Lodhi.
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Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh flagged off relief trucks personally.
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Education Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO worked barefoot with a spade in Tarn Taran to help villagers fill a landslide pit.
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Dr. Baljit Kaur, Cabinet Minister, visited Noorshah in Faizilka to distribute relief material.
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Panchayat Minister Tarunpreet Sond and Cabinet Minister Laljit Bhullar also delivered supplies across districts.
In a historic gesture, all Punjab ministers, including the CM, donated their entire one month’s salary to the relief fund — underscoring that this government leads by action, not speeches.
The relief operations combined humanitarian aid with innovation. So far, 3,200 ration kits, 17,000 food packets, and 45,000 water bottles have been distributed. Livestock support included 700 quintals of dry fodder and 1,450 feed bags. The state also set up community kitchens, veterinary health camps, counseling for children, a 24/7 helpline, and digital tracking of relief supplies to ensure transparency and efficiency.
CM Mann reiterated that the government’s top priority is the safety and well-being of every citizen, adding that the administration has risen above politics to focus solely on serving humanity.
Today, as Punjab recovers, its people see a government that doesn’t merely make promises but stands with them every step of the way. The Mann government’s flood relief drive has emerged as a landmark example of politics rooted in service, dedication, and sensitivity, giving Punjab a new identity as a resilient and strong state.
