erka Spearheads Extensive Relief Operations Across Punjab
Chandigarh, September 6
As Punjab grapples with one of its worst floods in recent history, impacting nearly 1,900 villages and submerging approximately 4 lakh hectares of fertile land, the Cooperation Department, along with Milkfed Punjab (Verka) and its affiliated Milk Unions, has launched an extensive relief and recovery operation to support both residents and livestock. The most severely affected districts—Amritsar, Ferozepur, Abohar, Fazilka, and Jalandhar—are home to nearly 3.5 lakh people struggling to access essential supplies.
Under the guidance of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Milkfed Punjab has implemented a dual strategy to sustain dairy farmers and livestock while ensuring the supply of milk and essential food items to flood-affected communities.
Financial Commissioner Cooperation Sumer Gurjar stated, “This is more than just relief—it’s a testament to Verka’s deep connection with the people of Punjab. Our teams are working tirelessly on the ground to protect farmers’ livelihoods, ensure animal welfare, and guarantee that no family goes without nourishment.”
With floodwaters submerging transportation routes, dairy farmers faced challenges in delivering milk, risking severe financial losses. Milkfed responded by deploying boats and makeshift carriers to reach milk collection points in flooded villages, ensuring uninterrupted procurement of raw milk. This remarkable effort has protected farmers’ incomes while maintaining Punjab’s milk supply chain under crisis conditions.
Milkfed Managing Director Rahul Gupta shared, “Thousands of cattle stranded in flooded sheds are being prioritized. In collaboration with our affiliated Milk Unions, we are providing cattle feed and chokar (bran) at subsidized rates. To further this initiative, Milkfed has requested a ₹50 crore grant from the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), which, if approved, will enable the free distribution of cattle feed across affected districts.”
On the human relief front, Milkfed is coordinating with district administrations to supply fresh milk, skimmed milk powder, whole milk powder, and dairy whitener. These essentials are critical for families, especially those with children, elderly, and vulnerable members. The operation is being rapidly scaled up to ensure uninterrupted nourishment across all flood-affected areas.
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Gupta further noted that Milkfed and its Unions have committed to distributing 15,000 food kits to stranded families. Distribution has already started from Verka dairies in Jalandhar, Mohali, and Sangrur, with supplies reaching relief camps and remote areas.
Officials from the Cooperation Department emphasized that Milkfed Punjab’s efforts extend beyond immediate relief. Amid an unprecedented crisis, Milkfed and its Unions have shown resilience by supporting farmers and livestock while ensuring no family lacks essential supplies.
As Punjab embarks on the path to recovery, Verka’s coordinated relief efforts exemplify cooperation, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to nourishing the nation.
