Chouhan Announces Relief for Flood-Hit J&K Farmers

RR Team

3 months ago

Jammu, September 20, 2025: Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Friday visited Badyal Brahmana village in RS Pura, Jammu, to review the flood situation and interact with affected farmers. Touring the inundated fields, the minister assessed crop damage firsthand before addressing a large gathering of residents who lost crops, livestock, and property in the calamity.

Reassuring the local population, Chouhan said the Modi government stands firmly with the people of Jammu and Kashmir in this difficult time. He pledged that the Centre would extend all possible assistance after consultation with the J&K administration and upon receipt of official damage assessment reports.

Immediate and Long-Term Relief Measures

Announcing urgent steps for relief, the minister declared that one instalment of the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme would be released immediately for affected farmers. He also announced that labourers in flood-hit areas will receive an additional 50 man-days of work under MGNREGA, raising the entitlement to 150 man-days for this year.

To compensate losses, Chouhan said farmers who lost cattle and other animals will be reimbursed, while around 5,000 damaged houses will be rebuilt with central assistance. Under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), each house will receive ₹1.3 lakh for reconstruction, along with a provision for toilets. The minister also announced that ₹76 crore would be released to Self Help Groups (SHGs) that suffered financial setbacks due to the disaster.

Infrastructure and Recovery Plans

Chouhan underlined that the J&K government currently has ₹2,499 crore earmarked for disaster management. These funds will be mobilised to support flood rehabilitation, with the Centre ready to step in with additional assistance if required. He directed the J&K administration to prioritise renovation of damaged canals and embankments to prevent further agricultural disruption.

The minister further suggested that the sand deposited by floodwaters in agricultural fields should be treated as a resource. He asked the J&K Mining Department to relax rules so that affected farmers could utilise the sand for their own benefit, turning adversity into opportunity.

Government Response and Ongoing Assessments

Teams from the Ministries of Home Affairs, Jal Shakti, Rural Development, and Agriculture have already conducted surveys in different parts of Jammu and Kashmir. Their reports, along with the state government’s memorandum, will guide the Centre’s final relief and compensation package.

Later in the day, Chouhan chaired a review meeting with the J&K administration in Jammu city. He reiterated that the Union Government would leave no stone unturned in ensuring relief reaches every affected family and farmer. “We are committed to helping J&K rebuild with dignity and resilience,” the minister said.