In September 2025, Punjab, India's agricultural heartland, experienced catastrophic flooding due to record monsoon rains, resulting in extensive damage to crops and livestock. The floods, which affected over 400,000 people and resulted in at least 52 fatalities, have left farmers like Rakesh Kumar devastated, as their investments have been washed away. The region saw rainfall increase by nearly two-thirds compared to the average for August, exacerbated by climate change and poor development planning. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a relief package of approximately $180 million, but recovery efforts are hindered by the state's choice to forgo federal insurance schemes. Villagers are left in precarious conditions, with many losing their homes and livelihoods, raising concerns about food security in a state that supplies rice and wheat to millions.