Muktsar, September 4: A marginal farmer from Badian village in the Gidderbaha Assembly constituency has won hearts by donating his entire stock of wheat straw to feed livestock in Punjab’s flood-hit areas.
Ravinder Singh, known locally as Shinda, owns just one acre of land and tills about 20 acres on lease with his brother. Despite his modest means, he gave away more than 200 quintals of wheat straw, the only fodder he had stored for his own cattle.
“When villagers decided to pool fodder for flood-affected families, Ravinder immediately offered his entire stock,” said resident Raja Singh. “Elated over his generosity, the community honoured him with a ‘siropa’ (robe of honour).”
Fellow villager Gurmeet Singh said the gesture carried special meaning for farming families. “Farmers know the importance of fodder. For many households, cattle are their only livelihood. If animals survive, families will survive too. Ravinder’s step has motivated others to contribute whatever they can,” he said.
Residents said the collected wheat straw was being loaded onto trailers bound for Fazilka and Ferozepur, among the districts worst affected by the recent floods.
