NEW DELHI: In a historic gesture, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann personally flagged off seven trucks loaded with 1.85 lakh quintals of wheat seeds from Amritsar, marking the beginning of a massive relief operation for flood-affected farmers. The government has spent ₹74 crore to distribute nearly two lakh quintals of seeds free of cost across flood-hit districts.
When Punjab’s floods destroyed standing crops over five lakh acres, farmers were left devastated — their fields submerged, debts mounting, and hopes fading. The state government acted swiftly to provide relief ahead of the Rabi sowing season, ensuring seeds reach farmers directly in villages without any paperwork.
Calling farmers the “backbone of the nation,” CM Mann said, “This is not just ₹74 crore — it is our government’s respect for the farmers. When they are in distress, how can we step back?” He praised Punjab’s farmers for their role in the Green Revolution and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to support them at every step.
The floods left a trail of destruction — 2,300 villages submerged, 20 lakh people affected, and 56 lives lost. Over 7 lakh residents were displaced, while 3,200 schools, 19 colleges, and 1,400 hospitals were damaged. Infrastructure took a heavy blow with 8,500 km of roads and 2,500 bridges destroyed, crippling connectivity and basic supplies.
Initial assessments put the loss at ₹13,800 crore, but the real damage could be higher. Thousands of farmers lost their livestock, homes, and savings, pushing many into deeper debt. Yet, Punjab’s spirit remains unbroken. As floodwaters receded, farmers returned to their fields, determined to rebuild.
“This is just the beginning,” said Mann. “We will provide compensation, debt relief, and more schemes to help every affected farmer. Soon, Punjab’s fields will flourish again — because our farmers are our pride.”
As relief trucks roll out, they carry not just wheat seeds — but hope, resilience, and the promise of revival for Punjab’s heartland.
