Chandigarh, Sept 17: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday launched “Mission Chardi Kala,” a global fundraising drive to mobilize resources for the state government’s rehabilitation efforts in the wake of the devastating 2025 floods.
Addressing the people through a video message, Mann described the catastrophe as a once-in-a-lifetime tragedy that left behind unprecedented destruction. “In the past days, Punjab witnessed a scene that our generations will never forget. These floods did not just bring water, they washed away millions of dreams,” the Chief Minister said.
According to him, nearly 2,300 villages were submerged, affecting more than 2 million people. The calamity destroyed five lakh acres of crops, left seven lakh people homeless, and claimed 56 lives. Infrastructure losses were also staggering, with 3,200 government schools damaged, 19 colleges reduced to rubble, 1,400 clinics and hospitals ruined, 8,500 kilometers of roads washed away, and 2,500 bridges collapsing. Initial assessments put the financial damage at around ₹13,800 crore, though Mann cautioned that the real toll “may be even greater.”
Calling the disaster “the most horrifying tragedy in Punjab’s history,” Mann said it also represents the state’s “biggest test.” He added, “Every time Punjab has faced a crisis, we have never bowed down. We have always stood tall, with strength and courage.”
Mann recalled how the people of Punjab rose to the occasion during the floods. “I saw how our youth risked their lives to save others, how gurdwaras and temples opened their doors to feed the distressed, and how Punjab stood united like one family. This is our greatest strength,” he noted.
The Chief Minister said the focus must now shift from relief to rebuilding. “Our farmers need to sow their fields again, our children must return to school, and families must rebuild their homes. That is why we have launched Mission Chardi Kala, which means strength even in sorrow, hope even in darkness,” he said.
Mann issued an appeal to Punjabis everywhere — within India and abroad — as well as industrialists, artists, charitable trusts, and the wider public. “Punjab needs you today. I urge everyone to come together and hold Punjab’s hand in this time of need. Open your hearts and support Punjab generously,” he said. He assured donors that “every single rupee of their contribution will be used with full honesty and transparency, solely for rehabilitation and rebuilding.”
Contributions can be made through the portal www.rangla.punjab.gov.in. Mann also announced the establishment of a special war room in his office to oversee the campaign. “I will personally monitor Mission Chardi Kala efforts daily,” he said, adding that the initiative will remain tightly supervised.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister reviewed ongoing flood relief measures during a video conference with all Deputy Commissioners. He instructed them to personally visit relief camps and affected areas every day to ensure that victims face no inconvenience. Mann reiterated that all funds raised under Mission Chardi Kala will be dedicated exclusively to the rehabilitation of flood-affected communities.
Finance Minister Harpal Cheema, Chief Secretary KAP Sinha and other senior officials were also present during the launch of the initiative.
