Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman outlined critical measures in the Budget 2024 on Tuesday, focussing on the rehabilitation, irrigation, and economic support for regions severely affected by natural disasters including Bihar, Assam, Sikkim, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. Her announcements highlighted strategic plans to address recurring floods and other natural calamities.
State-specific allocations and initiatives
Bihar: Combatting flood challenges
Funding allocation: An allocation of ?11,500 crore has been designated specifically for flood control initiatives in Bihar. The state frequently faces flooding, with many issues stemming from external sources.
Flood mitigation projects: To mitigate these challenges, the government plans to finance projects through the Accelerated Irrigation Benefit programme. These projects include constructing flood control structures in Nepal.
Survey and investigation: A comprehensive survey focussed on the Kosi-related flood mitigation and irrigation efforts will be conducted to better inform future projects.
Assam: Managing Brahmaputra’s fury
Assam, battling annual floods due to the Brahmaputra river and its tributaries, will receive targeted assistance. This support aims to enhance flood management capabilities and fund relevant infrastructure projects.
Uttarakhand: Addressing cloudbursts and landslides
Assistance for recovery: With Uttarakhand facing significant damages from recent cloudbursts and landslides, the government has pledged support to aid recovery efforts and rebuild affected areas.
Himachal Pradesh: Rebuilding after extensive flood damage
In response to last year’s devastating floods in Himachal Pradesh, a package of assistance is planned to aid in reconstruction and rehabilitation. This includes funding sourced from multilateral development assistance.
Sikkim: Recovering from glacial lake outburst
Sikkim’s recovery from the recent Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) is a priority with specific assistance announced to help restore infrastructure and stabilise communities.
In her budget speech for 2024-25, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addressed the recent calamity in Sikkim highlighting the destructive flash floods and landslides that have severely impacted the state. She assured that the government will extend necessary assistance to support Sikkim in this difficult time.
Broader impact and economic revitalisation
The comprehensive assistance package aims to provide essential relief to these regions facilitating the rebuilding of infrastructure, revitalisation of local economies and support for community resilience. The strategic allocations reflect a commitment to addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable development across the nation.
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