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New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed deep anguish over the devastation caused by the recent floods and landslides in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and neighbouring states, saying natural calamities during this monsoon have tested the country’s resilience.
Speaking in the 125th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Modi said the relentless downpour had unleashed “massive havoc” in North India. “Homes torn apart, fields submerged, and entire families destroyed. The surge of water swept away bridges, washed away roads, and put countless lives in danger. These incidents have saddened every Indian,” he said.
The Prime Minister lauded the tireless efforts of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), armed forces, and local administrations in Punjab and Himachal, where thousands have been stranded due to swollen rivers and blocked highways. “Our personnel worked day and night, deploying technology — from thermal cameras and live detectors to drones and sniffer dogs. Relief material was delivered by helicopters, and the injured were airlifted. Local residents, doctors, social workers, everyone came forward to prioritise humanity in this crisis. I heartily thank them,” he said.
Amid the devastation, Modi also pointed to two achievements from Jammu and Kashmir that, he said, reflected India’s resilience and changing spirit. He highlighted Pulwama’s first day-night cricket match, which drew record crowds, and the ‘Khelo India Water Sports Festival’ at Dal Lake, Srinagar, where over 800 athletes — men and women in almost equal numbers — participated. “Earlier this was unthinkable. But now, my country is changing,” he remarked.
