The winter chill is creeping into the high hills of Seraj in Mandi district. But for the families of Anah panchayat, still reeling from the monsoon disaster that tore through their homes four months ago, the cold season brings more than frost. It brings fear, uncertainty and the ache of promises that remain unfulfilled.

Despite receiving the first installment of rebuilding aid from the state government, many disaster-hit families remain without permanent shelter. They now live in cramped rented rooms, still waiting for the rent assistance the government had pledged months ago.

Lal Singh, a farmer from Anah panchayat, stands beside the raw foundation of what will one day be his home, if the money lasts that long. When torrential rains struck in July, his house collapsed entirely, leaving

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