With the aim of providing relief to families devastated by the severe floods that destroyed homes, farmland, livelihoods and a large number of livestock, the Assam government has announced a new financial assistance package.
As per the norms of the State Disaster Response Fund, affected families in Sivasagar, Charaideo, Jorhat and Golaghat districts will receive compensation for the loss of cattle, goats, pigs, and poultry.
According to the government, each beneficiary will be eligible for compensation for a maximum of three milch cattle. ₹37,500 will be released for each cow or equivalent large animal.
Similarly, a family that has lost up to 30 small animals — such as goats or pigs — will receive ₹4,000 per animal. For poultry, compensation of ₹100 per bird will be provided for up to a maximum of 100 birds.
As per government data, the recent floods have caused extensive damage to homes, agricultural land and livestock across large parts of Upper Assam. Many rural families who depend on dairy farming, cattle-goat-pig rearing and poultry sales have lost their primary source of livelihood.
The government further stated that along with livestock compensation, special Animal Health Camps will be organized in the affected areas through the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department. Treatment for surviving livestock and disease prevention measures will also be carried out at these camps.
According to official sources, assessment of damages has already begun. As per the prescribed rules, compensation for livestock losses will be released to eligible beneficiaries. Separate financial assistance will also be provided for damage to houses, crops, handlooms and other livelihoods.
It is worth mentioning that under this comprehensive rehabilitation package, about 75,000 eligible families will receive an immediate relief amount of ₹15,000. Affected families in Sivasagar and Charaideo will get an additional ₹10,000. A maximum of ₹1.20 lakh will be provided for reconstruction or repair of damaged houses, and separate aid will also be given for crop and livelihood losses.
The government expressed hope that this financial assistance and rehabilitation measures will help flood-affected families return to normal life.
