Chandigarh, October 16, 2025 — Bringing festive cheer to flood-affected families ahead of Diwali, the Punjab government has disbursed ₹209 crore in compensation to farmers across 14 districts, fulfilling Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s commitment to deliver aid within a month.
Finance and Planning Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Thursday kicked off the distribution in Sangrur’s Dhuri constituency, where he presented approval letters to eight affected families. “Under Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s leadership, we have ensured that no victim waits endlessly for their rightful assistance,” Cheema said.
As part of the state’s “Mission Punarvas” (Mission Rehabilitation), farmers are receiving ₹20,000 per acre for damaged crops — the highest such compensation ever announced by any state — and ₹40,000 for homes damaged in the floods, up from the earlier ₹4,000.
Chief Minister Mann had formally launched Mission Punarvas last month in Ajnala, where he distributed cheques worth ₹5.70 crore to 631 farmers. Calling it “a pledge fulfilled,” Mann had said the initiative reflects his government’s commitment to respond swiftly and compassionately to crises affecting ordinary people.
Thirteen cabinet ministers have been deputed to visit flood-hit areas to monitor relief distribution and ensure transparency. “This is not just financial help — it is about restoring dignity and stability to affected families,” Cheema noted. “Mission Punarvas is about rebuilding lives, not just homes.”
Cheema also praised the state’s handling of the disaster, crediting timely intervention and public cooperation. “Despite the Ghaggar River reaching 755 feet, not a single embankment breached. This shows the administration worked with full preparedness,” he said.
Sangrur Deputy Commissioner Rahul Chaba said the district had made advance preparations as directed by the Chief Minister, which prevented major damage along the 41-kilometre stretch of the river. “This was possible only because of the government’s proactive approach,” Chaba said.
Urging the Centre to expedite financial support, Cheema demanded the release of the ₹1,600 crore flood relief package announced earlier by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “So far, only ₹240 crore has reached Punjab as part of a routine annual installment,” he said, alleging discrimination against the state. “Even in crisis, the Mann government has stood firm on its own strength and with the people’s support.”
The swift rollout of aid has struck an emotional chord with flood victims. “For the first time, a government responded so quickly to our suffering,” said Gurmel Singh, a farmer from Sangrur. “We truly feel seen and supported.” Jaswinder Kaur, whose home was damaged in the floods, said, “This Diwali, light has returned to our home because of this government.”
Officials said the timely relief represents more than just financial assistance — it signals the state’s broader vision of resilience and self-reliance. Under Chief Minister Mann’s leadership, Mission Punarvas is being seen as a new model of empathetic governance in Punjab.
“This Diwali,” a senior official remarked, “the glow is not just from lamps in people’s homes, but from the faith they’ve regained in their government.”
