NEW DELHI: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann launched Mission Chardi Kala, a global fundraising campaign, on Wednesday to support the state’s rehabilitation efforts for victims of the devastating 2025 floods.
In an emotional video message, the Chief Minister described the floods as a tragedy that “washed away millions of dreams.” He said 2,300 villages were submerged, more than two million people affected, and five lakh acres of crops destroyed. At least 56 lives were lost and seven lakh people rendered homeless.
The floods also caused extensive damage to infrastructure: 3,200 government schools, 19 colleges, and 1,400 health institutions were ruined; 8,500 km of roads destroyed; and 2,500 bridges collapsed. Initial estimates peg the loss at ₹13,800 crore, though officials fear the figure could rise further.
“This is the most horrifying tragedy in Punjab’s history and the biggest test for us as a people,” Mann said, stressing that Punjab has always stood tall in times of crisis.
From Relief to Rehabilitation
Mann praised the spirit of Punjab, highlighting how youth risked their lives to save others and how religious institutions like gurdwaras and temples provided food and shelter. “Now it is time to move beyond relief and begin rehabilitation,” he said, noting that farmers must return to their fields, children to their schools, and families to their homes.
Explaining the meaning of Chardi Kala — “strength in sorrow, hope in darkness” — Mann said the campaign will channel that spirit into rebuilding efforts.
Clarion Call to Punjabis Worldwide
Appealing to Punjabis across the globe, industrialists, artists, charitable trusts, and all citizens of India, the Chief Minister urged them to contribute generously. “Every single rupee of your contribution will be used with full honesty and transparency for rehabilitation and rebuilding,” he assured.
Donations can be made at www.rangla.punjab.gov.in, Mann announced, adding that a special war room has been set up in his office to oversee the campaign. “I will personally monitor these efforts every day,” he said.
Administrative Push
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister held a video conference with all Deputy Commissioners, instructing them to personally visit relief camps and affected areas daily. He stressed that Mission Chardi Kala funds will be used exclusively for flood rehabilitation.
Finance Minister Harpal Cheema, Chief Secretary KAP Sinha, and senior officials were also present during the campaign launch.
