Centre will always stand by Himachal in times of need: JP Nadda

BJP National President and Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda on Wednesday visited the rain-ravaged areas of Mandi district in Himachal Pradesh, which have been severely affected by the monsoon.

Nadda toured several villages that suffered significant damage due to heavy rains, including Nachan, Pangliur, Baga, Sainj, and Thunag. He met with residents who had lost their homes and land entirely—many of whom also lost parents and other family members in the disaster. He also visited relief camps set up for those displaced by the calamity.

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Speaking to the media, Nadda said he has consistently visited Himachal Pradesh during times of crisis, offering support and solidarity.

“The recent destruction caused by rains is distressing. It has led to the loss of lives, property, and livestock, rendering many villages unsafe. Bagsiad and several other areas I visited have suffered extensive damage,” he said.

He claimed that the BJP was the first political party to provide relief to the public. “With public support, various service centers have been operating. The BJP played a leading role in swiftly collecting and distributing food and essential items to the victims,” he added.

Nadda emphasized that the Government of India has always acted promptly to provide relief and financial assistance to Himachal Pradesh.

“Our sentiments are with the affected people. Under the leadership of State President Rajeev Bindal and supervision of Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur, the BJP is leading the relief efforts in Himachal. We are committed to ensuring no one is left to suffer,” he said.

Regarding central assistance, Nadda stated that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, timely and substantial relief has been provided repeatedly.

Recalling the 2023 disaster, he mentioned that he had visited Himachal three times during that period and ensured the central government provided Rs 3,146 crore in aid to the state.

In the wake of the current disaster, Home Minister Amit Shah has sanctioned Rs 2,006 crore for rehabilitation and reconstruction based on official assessments. Additionally, separate allocations have been made under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, and funds have been released for the repair of damaged roads under the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojana, Nadda said.

“As a representative of the Central Government, I assure the people of Himachal Pradesh that the Centre is committed to providing more than its due share of funds for relief work. I urge the state government to ensure effective implementation of relief and rehabilitation efforts. In the past, there have been reports of weak execution despite sufficient funds being available,” he cautioned.

He concluded by expressing hope that the state government would take the necessary steps to improve the effectiveness of its relief work.