Centre Approves ₹2,006.40 Crore Assistance to Himachal Pradesh for 2023 Disaster Recovery

In a significant step towards supporting Himachal Pradesh’s post-disaster recovery efforts, the central government has approved ₹2,006.40 crore for reconstruction and rehabilitation in the wake of devastating floods, landslides, and cloudbursts during the 2023 monsoon. The assistance will be provided under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) and was cleared by a high-level committee chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

Why in News?

The Union Government has approved a ₹2,006.40 crore recovery plan for Himachal Pradesh. The aid is meant to support reconstruction after severe natural disasters that struck during July–August 2023. Over 550 lives were lost, and extensive damage to infrastructure was recorded.

Total Sanctioned Amount

• ₹2,006.40 crore, out of which ₹1,504.80 crore is the Centre’s share from the Recovery and Reconstruction funding window of the NDRF.

Purpose

• To carry out recovery, reconstruction, and rehabilitation activities in affected areas.
• Rebuilding damaged infrastructure, resettlement of victims, and strengthening disaster resilience.

Committee Involved

• Headed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

Includes,

• Union Finance Minister
• Union Agriculture Minister
• Vice-Chairman of NITI Aayog

Background & Significance

• 2023 Monsoon Devastation in Himachal
• Heavy rainfall triggered landslides, floods, and cloudbursts.
• More than 550 casualties and large-scale infrastructure damage.
• The Congress-led state government had requested ₹9,042 crore under Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA).

Political Reactions

• JP Nadda, Union Health Minister and BJP National President (native of Himachal), called it crucial support.
• Jairam Thakur, Leader of the Opposition and ex-CM, welcomed the assistance.
• Rajiv Bindal, State BJP President, and Anurag Thakur, former Union Minister, also expressed gratitude.