Saving lives in a storm is vital — but rebuilding livelihoods after it will test true resilience. India must protect workers, not just restore assets

By Dr Sushanta Kumar Mahapatra, Madan Meher

Cyclone Montha made landfall on the eastern coast on October 28, 2025, causing widespread damage across Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Odisha. Making landfall near Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh with winds of 100–110 kmph, it moved through Ganjam, Rayagada, Koraput, and parts of Telangana before weakening. Fields were flattened, villages flooded, thousands were displaced, and significant crop losses reported.

No Safety Net

India’s long coastline supports millions of informal workers — fishers, farm labourers, construction workers, and street vendors — yet few have any safety net. The Society for Pol

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