Former Chief Minister and Former State President Prof. Prem Kumar Dhumal emphasized that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, Himachal Pradesh has always been given top priority, especially during times of natural calamities.
Central Government's Swift Response to Disasters
Speaking during a courtesy visit by BJP State Media Coordinator Karn Nanda at his residence, Prof. Dhumal highlighted key disaster relief measures:
Expert Team Formation
Following a high-level meeting chaired by Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah in July, a multi-sectoral central team was immediately constituted comprising experts from:
- National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)
- Central Building Research Institute (CBRI) Roorkee
- Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) Pune
- Geologists and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Indore
The meeting recognized the increased frequency and intensity of cloudbursts, flash floods, landslides, and heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh, causing widespread loss of life, infrastructure damage, and environmental degradation.
Financial Assistance Provided
For 2023 Disasters:
- ₹2,006.40 crore approved for rehabilitation and reconstruction
- First installment of ₹451.44 crore released on July 7, 2025
For 2025 Monsoon Relief:
- ₹198.80 crore (central share) from State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) released on June 18, 2025
- 13 NDRF teams deployed for rescue and relief operations
- Army teams and Air Force support provided
PM Modi's Himachal Visit
On September 9, 2025, Prime Minister Modi visited Himachal Pradesh to review the flood situation and damage caused by cloudbursts, rainfall, and landslides.
Actions Taken:
- Aerial survey of affected areas in Chamba, Bharmour, Kangra and other regions
- Official meeting in Kangra to assess damage and review relief work
- Announced ₹1,500 crore financial assistance
- Released advance installment of SDRF and PM Kisan Samman Nidhi
Multi-Dimensional Relief Approach
- House reconstruction through Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana
- National Highway restoration
- School reconstruction
- Mini kits for livestock
- Relief from Prime Minister's National Relief Fund
Prof. Dhumal also listened to the live broadcast of Prime Minister Modi's Mann Ki Baat program, reaffirming the central government's commitment to supporting Himachal Pradesh without discrimination during disasters.
