Amritsar: Amid the worsening flood crisis in Punjab, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan arrived in Amritsar on Thursday to take stock of the damage caused by heavy rainfall and overflowing rivers. His visit comes on the instructions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who directed him to review the ground realities personally.
Soon after landing, the Minister met Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, who handed him a detailed report outlining the extent of destruction across five districts: Amritsar, Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Tarn Taran, and Ferozepur.
At a press briefing, Chouhan assured that the Centre stands shoulder to shoulder with Punjab, promising immediate and adequate support for relief and rehabilitation. “Punjab has always been the pride of India. Whenever the nation faced hardship, Punjab stood strong. Today, when Punjab itself is in distress, the Government of India will extend every possible help,” he said.
Key Points from Chouhan’s Address:
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Punjab’s contribution acknowledged: The Minister lauded Punjab’s historic role in serving the nation, adding that its resilience in times of crisis is unparalleled.
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1,400 villages impacted: According to preliminary reports, nearly 1,400 villages across the state are under floodwaters. Chouhan said he would personally visit affected areas, interact with residents, and review damage to homes, livestock, and crops.
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Central support assured: Stressing that the Centre is fully committed, he said Union Ministers Ravneet Singh Bittu and Sunil Jakhar, along with senior party leaders, will also be part of relief efforts.
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Assessment underway: Two multidisciplinary central teams — comprising officials from agriculture, rural development, roadways, energy, finance, and water resources — are already on the ground. They will prepare a comprehensive damage report for submission to the Prime Minister.
Following the press conference, Chouhan departed to tour flood-hit villages in Amritsar and the surrounding districts. He emphasized that his immediate focus is on relief work and urged everyone to stand united in helping the affected families.
