Chandigarh, April 22
The Punjab Government on Tuesday approved a relief package worth more than ₹123 crore for farmers whose crops were damaged by a hailstorm that hit parts of the state last month. Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Hardeep Singh Mundian said the compensation was sanctioned after field assessments by district authorities, with the aim of ensuring timely support to affected cultivators during the harvesting season.
Officials said the relief covers crop losses across 92,695 acres in 111 villages spread over seven districts. The damage ranged from partial losses to complete crop destruction, with compensation calculated to ensure a uniform and transparent process.
The minister said the government was committed to supporting farmers facing losses due to natural calamities. “We stand with the farming community in difficult times and aim to reduce financial hardship through prompt assistance,” he said.
Among the districts, Fazilka received the largest share of the relief, followed by Sri Muktsar Sahib and Bathinda. Other affected areas included Moga, Amritsar, Ferozepur and Rupnagar.
Authorities said compensation has been worked out based on the severity of damage, covering crops affected between 26% and 100%.
The government has also directed deputy commissioners to complete remaining formalities quickly so that payments can be transferred to farmers without delay.
