TNR News Network
SHIMLA: In a major boost to Himachal Pradesh’s post-disaster recovery efforts, the central government has approved Rs 2,006.40 crore in aid for areas affected by floods, landslides and cloudbursts in 2023.
A high-level committee, chaired by Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah, sanctioned the amount to support reconstruction in the state.
The Ministry of Home Affairs shared this update via its official handle on platform X (formerly Twitter), reiterating that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Centre stands firmly with states during times of natural disasters, irrespective of political lines.
Of the total sanctioned amount, Rs 1,504.80 crore will be provided under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) for recovery and reconstruction. This is in addition to the Rs 633.73 crore granted to Himachal Pradesh in December 2023 for relief and rehabilitation.
Centre Committed to Strengthening Disaster Preparedness
The central government’s broader commitment to disaster resilience is reflected in the Rs 25,425.16 crore allocated under the NDRF and SDRF for all states in the 2024-25 fiscal year.
It is noteworthy that the Himachal Pradesh government had sought Rs 9,000 crore from the Centre through a post-disaster needs assessment following the 2023 calamities.
Although the full requested amount is yet to be approved, the Rs 2,000 crore sanctioned marks a significant step forward in the recovery process.
The ministry said that under Prime Minister Modi’s vision of a disaster-resilient India, multiple initiatives have been launched to strengthen India’s disaster risk reduction framework. These include improved systems to reduce the impact of disasters and protect lives and property.
BJP leaders thank Centre for assistance
Senior BJP leaders have welcomed the Centre’s decision. BJP national president and Union Minister JP Nadda thanked Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for the financial support, emphasising its importance for the people of Himachal Pradesh as they recover from last year’s natural disasters.
Himachal Pradesh Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur, BJP state president Dr Rajeev Bindal, former ministers Suresh Kashyap and Anurag Thakur, and former Chief Ministers Prof Prem Kumar Dhumal and Shanta Kumar also expressed gratitude for the assistance, stating that the support was vital for the people of the state in their journey toward rebuilding and recovery.
