Punjab Governor and Administrator of UT Chandigarh, Gulab Chand Kataria, met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, to discuss the situation in Punjab and Chandigarh following recent floods. Kataria provided a detailed account of the relief measures being implemented in the aftermath of the devastating floods in Punjab.

The Governor highlighted the coordinated efforts of the state machinery and voluntary organizations in providing assistance to affected families. These efforts included restoring public infrastructure and ensuring effective disease control measures in flood-hit areas.

During the meeting, Kataria and Modi also discussed security and development concerns along the international border with Pakistan. Kataria stressed the need for the Central Government to encourage industries to establish units in these sensitive areas to create employment opportunities for the youth. He also emphasized strengthening vigilance at the international border through installing anti-drone systems and high-definition cameras.

Regarding education, the Governor briefed the Prime Minister on the implementation of the New Education Policy in Punjab and Chandigarh. He noted that efforts are underway to improve the quality of higher education by linking institutions with NAAC accreditation. Kataria also shared details of ongoing drug awareness campaigns in the state, which aim to sensitize the youth and promote a healthier society.

Kataria also proposed establishing a "Gift City" in Chandigarh, similar to the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City), to drive economic growth. He also highlighted a new sports policy that envisions Chandigarh as a prominent sports hub, with the goal of nurturing talent and hosting national and international tournaments. Furthermore, he briefed the Prime Minister on the new Startup Policy in Chandigarh, aimed at promoting self-employment opportunities for the youth.

In response to the flood situation in Punjab, the Prime Minister had previously announced a series of measures to support the state. These include financial assistance of ₹1,600 crore and initiatives focused on water sustainability, housing reconstruction, and education. Modi had also announced ₹2 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives, ₹50,000 for the injured, and full support for orphaned children through the PM CARES fund.

The "Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari" initiative will focus on constructing recharge structures for water harvesting across Punjab, repairing damaged structures, and creating new ones. Financial assistance will also be provided to government schools damaged by the floods under the "Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan". Additionally, financial assistance will be provided under the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana (Gramin) for reconstructing rural homes damaged during the floods. Children orphaned due to the floods and landslides will receive comprehensive support under the PM CARES for Children scheme.