Prime Minister Narendra Modi today assured flood-hit farmers in Punjab that their demand for relief money through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme would be reviewed. Farmers urged the PM to deposit compensation directly into their bank accounts, highlighting that direct relief to farmers is the most effective way to address their suffering.
A group of 19 farmers from Gurdaspur and Pathankot districts met the PM at Tibri Cantonment. They shared issues like damaged homes, silt-covered fields, and loss of schools and dispensaries. Farmers repeated that direct relief to farmers would help them recover faster. Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu and BJP leaders Sunil Jakhar, Tarun Chugh, and Ashwani Sharma supported the farmers’ plea, calling it ethical and justified.
Some officials, however, raised concerns that many farmers lack bank accounts and digital literacy, which could hinder DBT implementation. Villagers also explained how bundh construction in 2020 worsened flooding by blocking the natural flow of water into Pakistan.
The PM promised to speed up rebuilding schools, dispensaries, and houses while also considering DBT for compensation. Farmers, already burdened with debt, said direct relief to farmers is their only hope for survival.
