Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan will soon visit flood-ravaged regions of Assam to assess the ground situation. The visit aims to provide quick relief to affected farmers and ensure that agricultural recovery begins without delay.
During a press briefing, Chouhan confirmed his plan to travel to the state. He emphasized that farmers play a vital role in the nation’s economy and must not be left behind during crises.
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Crop loss survey and urgent intervention
Recent floods have devastated vast areas across 18 districts in Assam. Over 2.5 lakh homes and thousands of hectares of cropland have suffered damage. Chouhan stated that the Centre stands fully committed to helping Assam recover and rebuild.
Importantly, the minister noted that he had already spoken with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. He assured the CM of full central support, including financial relief and resources for seed distribution.
Chouhan stressed that the government would not delay in compensating farmers who have lost their harvest. He also pointed out that the Centre aims to fast-track recovery through timely action.
High-impact districts on itinerary
The minister will visit several badly affected areas such as Barpeta, Darrang, Morigaon, and Nalbari. These districts have reported major crop losses, especially in paddy fields and vegetable belts.
In Barpeta alone, more than 20,000 farmers have reported complete losses. Chouhan plans to hold meetings with both officials and local farmers to understand their most urgent needs.
Besides, he will examine how state agencies are managing relief distribution and whether camps and food supplies are reaching displaced families.
Central and state teams to coordinate closely
Chouhan’s visit will include members of a central expert team. This team will work alongside state officials to assess agricultural damage and evaluate the progress of relief efforts. The Centre also plans to release emergency assistance based on the team’s findings.
He mentioned that the ministry has already issued orders to accelerate post-flood recovery programs. These include seed replacement, soil health restoration, and short-duration crop planning.
“The Prime Minister has asked every ministry to act fast. We are following that directive,” Chouhan said during his briefing.
Immediate and long-term support
The Centre is likely to announce seed and fertilizer kits for flood-hit farmers. Additionally, compensation through the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) will be fast-tracked. Field surveys are already in motion to finalize claims.
Chouhan emphasized that the government also wants to invest in long-term solutions. He proposed introducing flood-resistant crop varieties and building better drainage systems in low-lying farmlands.
He added, “We must make farming in Assam more resilient. Our focus will remain on both relief and preparedness.”
State Agriculture Minister Atul Bora praised the Centre’s involvement. He said the visit would boost the morale of local communities and accelerate the flow of assistance.
Farmers hopeful as relief mission gains speed
Local farmer groups have welcomed the announcement. In Darrang, farmer Dipak Kalita said, “We lost everything this season. But the minister’s visit gives us hope. We want to start again.”
Authorities have also stepped up monitoring efforts as floodwaters have not fully receded. Several tributaries of the Brahmaputra remain swollen, posing risks of further flooding. Relief camps continue to operate in multiple districts.
Despite these challenges, Chouhan’s visit is seen as a positive step. It signals the Centre’s willingness to stand beside farmers in times of hardship. The minister is expected to finalize a comprehensive action plan by the end of his tour.
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