Punjab Extends a Lifeline: Rs 74 Crore Wheat Seed Aid for Flood-Hit Farmers

In a powerful demonstration of its unwavering commitment to its agricultural backbone, the Punjab government has announced a monumental relief package for farmers grappling with the devastating aftermath of recent floods. A staggering 2 lakh quintals of certified wheat seeds, valued at an impressive Rs 74 crore, are being made available to flood-hit cultivators across 12 districts, ensuring a crucial lifeline for the upcoming Rabi crop.

The floods, which wreaked havoc across the state in July and August, left a trail of destruction, submerging over 4 lakh acres of valuable paddy, maize, cotton, and horticulture crops.

For thousands of farmers, the sight of their submerged fields brought despair, threatening their livelihoods and the state's agricultural output. Recognizing the urgency, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's administration swiftly moved to mitigate these losses and inject much-needed hope into the farming community.

This comprehensive initiative aims to empower farmers to overcome the challenges posed by the calamity and ensure the timely sowing of wheat, a staple crop for the region.

The state government is offering a generous 50% subsidy on the purchase of these high-quality wheat seeds. Farmers can procure the seeds from a network of trusted cooperative societies, including Markfed, Punjab Agro, PSWC, and the National Seeds Corporation, making access both convenient and affordable.

Eligibility for this vital aid is meticulously managed to ensure it reaches those most in need.

Only farmers whose crops were officially assessed as damaged by the floods, following surveys conducted by revenue officials, will qualify. This targeted approach ensures that the relief efforts are precisely directed to the most affected sections of the farming populace.

This wheat seed assistance comes in addition to another significant relief measure previously announced: a compensation of Rs 15,000 per acre for crops that suffered damage.

Such multi-pronged support underscores the Punjab government's holistic approach to disaster management and its dedication to protecting the interests of its farmers, who are often at the forefront of climate change impacts.

The move has been widely welcomed, symbolizing a strong partnership between the government and its farmers.

It's not just about providing seeds; it's about restoring faith, rebuilding lives, and safeguarding the agricultural future of Punjab. As farmers prepare for the Rabi season, this timely intervention promises to turn a chapter of despair into one of renewed hope and resilience, reinforcing the spirit of 'Jai Kisan'.