Punjab is reeling from one of the worst flood crises in decades. Over 2,050 villages are underwater, leaving nearly 3.9 lakh residents affected and at least 48 dead. Homes, roads, and infrastructure have been damaged, forcing thousands to relocate to safer areas.

The state’s agriculture, a key contributor to India’s food supply, has suffered catastrophic losses. More than 4.42 lakh acres of farmland have been submerged, including vast stretches of paddy, maize, and cotton. In some of the hardest-hit districts, over 80% of paddy crops have been destroyed. Punjab alone contributes roughly 25% of India’s wheat and 15% of its rice output, so the scale of destruction poses a real threat to national grain reserves and food security. Analysts warn this could reduce rice and wheat availability, push up food prices, and put additional strain on the Public Distribution System.

Livestock losses have compounded the crisis. Over 2.5 lakh animals and nearly 5.88 lakh poultry birds have been affected, many perishing due to flooded shelters and lack of feed. The reduction in milk, meat, and egg production further burdens farmers financially and disrupts local food supply chains.

In response, political leaders have demanded a ₹20,000 crore relief package to compensate farmers for crop and property losses, repair damaged infrastructure, and provide financial support. Neighboring states have also sent aid, but the scale of devastation highlights the need for coordinated disaster management.

Experts emphasize that while immediate relief is critical, long-term solutions are equally important. Strengthening flood management systems, improving drainage, adopting resilient crop varieties, and implementing emergency preparedness measures will be vital to safeguard Punjab’s agricultural backbone and protect India’s food security from future crises.