PM Narendra Modi Announces Ex-Gratia for Victims of Namchi Tunnel Collapse in Sikkim

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives in the collapse of an under‑construction tunnel at Namchi , Sikkim on 21 July 2026 . He announced financial assistance to the families of the deceased and to the injured through the PMNRF . Key Developments Ex‑gratia of Rs. 2 lakh per deceased family to be released from the PMNRF . Injured persons to receive Rs. 50,000 each. The Prime Minister conveyed condolences via a post on the social media platform X. Important Facts The tunnel was under construction and collapsed, leading to multiple fatalities and injuries. The exact number of casualties was not disclosed in the release. The government’s immediate response includes financial aid and a public expression of sympathy. UPSC Relevance This incident touches upon several UPSC syllabus areas: Prime Minister ’s role in disaster management and communication. PMNRF as a financial instrument for emergency relief. ex‑gratia policy and its implications for fiscal budgeting. Infrastructure safety and monitoring, especially in challenging terrains like the Himalayas (<span class="key-term" data-definition="Tunnel — An underground passage used for transportation; its construction in mountainous regions poses engineering and saf