Daijiworld Media Network – Guwahati
Guwahati, Jul 29: Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday announced enhanced financial assistance for families affected by the devastating floods in the state, including an additional compensation of Rs 5 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased person and immediate relief of Rs 15,000 for flood-affected families in the worst-hit districts.
Reviewing the flood situation and addressing the media, Sarma said no financial assistance could compensate for the loss of human lives, but the state government would continue to support affected families during the crisis.
"The pain of losing loved ones cannot be alleviated by any amount of financial assistance. Nevertheless, to provide support to the families affected by the floods, an additional assistance of Rs 5 lakh will be provided from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund to the family members of each deceased person," he said.
The Chief Minister clarified that the additional amount would be over and above the existing ex-gratia compensation of Rs 4 lakh provided under government norms, taking the total assistance to Rs 9 lakh for each deceased person's family.
Sarma also announced an immediate interim relief of Rs 15,000 for every flood-affected family in the worst-hit districts to help them manage urgent requirements arising from the disaster.
He said the assistance would be provided to all eligible flood-hit families without discrimination, including government employees, Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA), Mid-Day Meal workers and other categories that are often left out of certain compensation schemes.
The announcement comes as Assam continues to face one of its worst flood situations of the season, with thousands of families affected across several districts. Floodwaters have damaged houses, agricultural land and public infrastructure.
The state government has been carrying out relief and rehabilitation efforts in coordination with district administrations, while rescue operations and distribution of essential supplies continue in affected areas.
The latest relief package is expected to provide immediate financial support to affected households as the government steps up rehabilitation measures across the state.