Chandigarh, October 28: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday flagged off seven trucks carrying wheat seeds from Amritsar to flood-affected districts, marking what officials described as one of the largest post-flood farm relief operations in the state’s history.
The government is distributing around 1.85 lakh quintals of certified wheat seed, valued at approximately ₹74 crore, free of cost to farmers whose crops were destroyed in the recent floods. The assistance aims to ensure that affected cultivators can begin sowing for the upcoming Rabi season without delay.
“This is not just about seeds—it is about restoring hope,” Mann said at the flag-off event, noting that the aid will be delivered directly to farmers’ doorsteps without paperwork. “Our farmers are the backbone of this country. When they are in trouble, we must stand beside them,” he said.
According to official estimates, the floods submerged over five lakh acres of farmland across Punjab, leaving many farmers without seed or resources to prepare for the next crop cycle. In several regions, standing paddy crops were destroyed, livestock perished, and rural infrastructure suffered extensive damage.
Preliminary assessments suggest total losses exceeding ₹13,800 crore, including to roads, schools, and health facilities. Officials said the wheat distribution drive is the first phase of the state’s larger relief and rehabilitation plan, which also includes compensation payments and potential loan restructuring for affected farmers.
Farm unions have cautiously welcomed the seed aid but urged the government to ensure transparency and follow-up support. “The seeds are timely, but we also need financial relief to clear damaged fields and repair equipment,” said a farmer leader from Tarn Taran district.
The state government has said that all affected farmers will receive seed support by early November, ahead of the Rabi sowing schedule.
