Shimla, July 23
In a significant development, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has assured aid to Himachal Pradesh for reconstruction and rehabilitation following the extensive flood damages last year. Presenting the budget estimates for the financial year 2024-25 in Parliament, the Finance Minister specifically mentioned the plight of flood-affected Himachal Pradesh, pledging central assistance to support the state’s recovery efforts.
The devastating monsoon rains of the previous year wreaked havoc across Himachal Pradesh, resulting in a cumulative loss of Rs 12,500 crore and claiming the lives of 500 people. In the aftermath of the disaster, the state government sought approximately Rs 9,500 crore from the central government to aid in reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts. However, the state did not receive any additional funds under the state contingency plan, leading to accusations from the Himachal Pradesh government that the BJP-led central government had neglected the flood-ravaged state.
The Finance Minister’s recent assurance marks a pivotal moment, signaling the central government’s commitment to addressing the extensive damages and supporting the state’s recovery. Although the exact size of the financial assistance package was not specified in Sitharaman’s budget speech, the explicit mention of Himachal Pradesh is a positive indication of forthcoming support.
Himachal Pradesh’s government has consistently underscored the dire need for financial aid to rebuild infrastructure, rehabilitate affected communities, and restore normalcy. The delayed response had been a point of contention, with the state accusing the central government of politicizing the tragedy and failing to provide timely assistance.
This announcement brings a glimmer of hope for the state, which has been grappling with the aftereffects of the disaster. The promised central assistance is expected to expedite reconstruction projects and provide much-needed relief to the affected populations, reaffirming the government’s role in disaster management and support.
As Himachal Pradesh prepares for the incoming support, the focus will be on efficient utilization of the funds to ensure swift and effective rehabilitation, aiding the state in its journey towards recovery.
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