The release of Rs 171 crore as an advance instalment under the PM-KISAN scheme marks a decisive moment in the Government’s ongoing efforts to provide relief and reassurance to the flood-affected farmers of Jammu and Kashmir. What makes this release particularly significant is that it comes as a fulfilment of the assurances given by Union Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan during his last visit to the flood-ravaged areas of the Jammu region. The gesture not only reinforces the Government’s commitment to stand shoulder to shoulder with those who suffered losses but also demonstrates a proactive approach to crisis management, where words have been matched by swift action. The advance release of the 21st PM-KISAN instalment-amounting to Rs 171 crore benefiting over 8.55 lakh farmers, including more than 85,000 women farmers-comes as timely relief. The decision to pre-empt the regular cycle and disburse the instalment ahead of schedule underscores the Government’s sensitivity to ground realities. In the aftermath of the floods, when crops were destroyed, fields inundated, and livelihoods shattered, this injection of liquidity into rural households offers a critical lifeline.
Equally noteworthy is the approval of Rs 85.62 crore for the reconstruction of 5,101 damaged houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. Each affected family will receive Rs 1.3 lakh for house reconstruction and an additional Rs 40,000 for toilet construction and associated labour costs through MGNREGA. This comprehensive approach ensures not only shelter but also dignity and sanitation-a combination that turns relief into long-term rehabilitation. These commitments, made by Chouhan during his earlier visit, have now materialised into tangible action, reflecting the Government’s sincerity in delivering on its promises. Further, the Government’s announcement to extend MGNREGA workdays from 100 to 150 for flood-affected households adds another layer of social security. This measure directly addresses the immediate livelihood concerns of rural families, giving them sustained income support as they rebuild their lives. The decision represents a crucial bridge between relief and recovery, ensuring that rural employment does not falter in adversity.
The “Jiska Kheth, Uski Reth” policy, granting sand extraction rights to farmers, has emerged as a thoughtful intervention to support those whose fields were buried under layers of silt. It gives them both the right and opportunity to reclaim and utilise their own land resources. Meanwhile, the Centre has also assured additional financial support under the SDRF and NDRF frameworks as per evolving needs, demonstrating flexibility and responsiveness to ground assessments. The announcement of expeditious compensation under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana further ensures that no farmer will be left behind. This holistic package-from income support and housing assistance to employment generation and crop compensation-represents a well-rounded framework for recovery.
At a time when despair had engulfed large parts of rural J&K, this combination of targeted interventions has rekindled hope. The Government’s message is clear: no farmer or rural family will face this crisis alone. Centre’s empathetic outreach have restored a sense of confidence among affected communities. The coordination between the Centre and UT Government has been exemplary, ensuring that relief is both need-based and transparent.
However, the next crucial step lies in the speed and efficiency of disbursal. With the PM-KISAN installment already transferred through DBT, expectations are high that other benefits-housing assistance, MGNREGA expansion, and crop insurance compensation-will follow swiftly. Timely delivery is essential not only for material recovery but also for maintaining public faith in institutions. The bureaucratic machinery must now function with urgency, ensuring that every rupee sanctioned reaches its rightful beneficiary without delay or dilution.
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