Chandigarh, July 16:
In order to tackle any unforeseen natural disaster effectively, the Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has given nod to constitute State Disaster Mitigation Fund
(SDMF).
Giving the details, the Chief Minister said that the SDMF has been constituted under Section 48 1(c) of the Disaster Management Act 2005. He said that with the formation of this Fund, projects related to mitigation measures will be launched in the state. Bhagwant Mann expressed hope that these measures will help the state in coping with and mitigating natural calamities.
The Chief Minister said that the fund has been constituted on the recommendations of the Fifteenth Finance Commission. He said that the state share in the SDMF from 2021 to 2026 will be 25% while the Central Share will be 75%. Bhagwant Mann said that a total sum of Rs. 729.60 Crore will be available in the SDMF from 2021 to 2026, which will be instrumental in further augmenting the preparedness of the state for any sort of natural disaster.
The Chief Minister said that state government is fully seized of the gravity of situation and need for effective preparedness to cope up with any sort of unforeseen natural disaster. He said that the state government accords top priority to safety and security of people and no stone will be left unturned for this noble cause. Bhagwant Mann reiterated the commitment of the state government for progress of the state and prosperity of its people.