The Central Government has given a significant financial boost to Himachal Pradesh for rebuilding efforts after the devastating 2023 monsoons. The Union Ministry of Finance has approved an assistance package of Rs 601.92 crore for the hill state, a move announced by Leader of Opposition and former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur on Saturday.
Approval Follows Home Ministry Recommendation
This crucial financial aid stems from a recommendation made by the Union Home Ministry on December 15. The funds are being released from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) specifically for recovery and reconstruction activities. The approval was formalized through a finance ministry letter dated December 24, which cited the extensive destruction caused by the monsoon fury earlier in the year.
The letter from the finance ministry has directed the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to immediately credit the approved sum into the Himachal Pradesh government's account. This step is expected to expedite the flow of resources to the affected regions.
Conditions and Total Aid Context
However, the central government has attached a condition for the release of subsequent installments. The finance ministry's communication states that the next tranche of the central share will be provided only after the state government has utilized 75% of the funds previously allocated. This clause emphasizes accountability and efficient fund management.
Jai Ram Thakur highlighted that with this latest approval, the total central assistance for disaster-related needs in Himachal Pradesh has reached nearly Rs 6,000 crore. He expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for the support, stating it would significantly aid the state's development works, strengthen infrastructure, and improve the quality of life for the public.
Call for Transparent Utilization
The BJP leader also issued an appeal to the current Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led state government. He urged the administration to ensure that the relief amount is used judiciously and transparently for the welfare of families impacted by the disasters and for the overall betterment of the affected areas. The assistance is sanctioned under the Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) framework, which is a structured method to evaluate loss and determine recovery needs after a major calamity.
This financial infusion is seen as a critical step in helping Himachal Pradesh rebuild its damaged infrastructure and support its citizens on the path to recovery from one of the most challenging monsoon seasons in recent history.
