Punjab Launches Flood Relief Measures, Including Compensation and Loan Waivers

The Punjab government has announced a major relief package for flood victims following a cabinet meeting. The package includes several key initiatives aimed at assisting affected individuals and farmers. A new sand policy has been implemented, allowing farmers to sell sand deposited on their fields due to the floods. The government will also provide compensation of ₹20,000 per acre for crop damage. Families who lost members in the floods will receive ₹4 lakh in compensation. Moreover, a six-month moratorium on loan installments will be granted to farmers with loans from Punjab Co-operative Banks, with no interest accruing during this period. Other measures include organizing vaccination drives after the floodwaters recede, setting up medical camps for health check-ups, and conducting large-scale sanitation drives. Surveys will be undertaken to assess the damage to schools, colleges, and government buildings, as well as livestock losses, with the government promising to address issues and provide support to the affected population.