Even as Punjab’s 19 districts were badly affected by the impact of the devastating floods causing significant losses with standing water in several areas hampering relief efforts, the State Government is set to initiate the compensation measures for the flood-affected farmers starting August 15-Independence Day (Tuesday).
The state Agriculture and farmers’ Welfare Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal on Monday said that the State Government is committed to providing compensation to flood-affected farmers, even without girdawari or a formal assessment of damages. “The process to provide compensation to the farmers would begin from August 15,” he announced after holding a meeting with the farmer leader Rakesh Tikait at Dhaliwal's residence.
Dhaliwal acknowledged that in certain areas, the floodwater is yet to recede, preventing a comprehensive assessment of the extent of damages. Nonetheless, the State Government remains steadfast in its commitment to address the needs of affected farmers.
The flood-induced losses have particularly impacted crops, leading farmer leader Rakesh Tikait to express his concerns. Tikait emphasized the importance of fair compensation from the government for the losses incurred due to the floods. He also touched upon the ongoing struggle for Minimum Support Price (MSP) and the need for the Central Government to address farmers' grievances.