When torrential rains and landslides ravaged Himachal Pradesh earlier this monsoon, it left hundreds of families shattered.
Among the survivors is 11-month-old Neetika, who miraculously lived through a flash flood that claimed her parents and grandmother in Mandi district.
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to meet Neetika and 20 other survivors during his visit to Kangra to review the flood response efforts and rehabilitation work across the state.
Neetika was asleep in her cradle when a cloudburst triggered flash floods in Talwara village on the night of June 30.
Her family stepped out to protect their home, but never returned. Her father’s body was recovered nearby; her mother and grandmother remain missing.
A photo of Sub-Divisional Magistrate Samritika Negi holding the infant has since gone viral, turning Neetika into the face of a tragedy that official figures struggle to convey.
The Himachal Pradesh government has declared Neetika a ‘child of the state’ and pledged to support her education and upbringing. Her aunt, who lives in the same village, is now caring for her.
PM Modi will arrive at Gaggal airport around 2 PM and meet survivors from various districts, including Mandi, Kullu, and Chamba, the worst-affected regions.
The visit will include a high-level review meeting with Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu and senior officials from both the state and central governments.
Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur and BJP state president Rajeev Bindal will also attend.
The youngest survivor, Neetika, belongs to Thakur’s Seraj constituency. His office played a key role in coordinating with the Prime Minister’s Office.
Himachal Pradesh has reported over ₹5,000 crore in damages, with 371 deaths and 41 people still missing since July. Roads, particularly National Highways, have been heavily affected.
Just ahead of the PM’s visit, another landslide struck Kullu’s Sharmani village, killing one. Rescue operations continue across the state.
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