IMPHAL, Oct 23: Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has unveiled a series of significant measures to support the state’s internally displaced persons (IDPs) and boost infrastructure development ahead of Diwali and Ningol Chakouba. During a press conference at the CM Secretariat on Wednesday, Singh announced a relief package along with several key projects aimed at providing both immediate and long-term support for the displaced population.
As part of the relief initiative, the government will distribute ₹1,000 to each individual living in relief camps, enabling them to celebrate the upcoming festivals. “Diwali and Nongol Chakouba are important festivals for Manipur, and the government wants to ensure that the displaced persons can celebrate with joy,” said Singh. The initiative is expected to cost the state around ₹6 to ₹7 crore. Additionally, the Chief Minister assured that salaries and pensions for government employees would be released by October 31 to help them celebrate Diwali comfortably.
This marks the fifth time the state government has provided such financial support to IDPs during festive seasons. Manipur currently has over 60,000 displaced persons due to the ethnic violence that began in May 2023.
Singh also announced that the Ministry of Urban Affairs has approved the construction of 7,000 houses to help resettle the displaced population. He further revealed that a proposal has been submitted to the Union Home Ministry for funds to build an additional 2,000 houses, which is under consideration.
In terms of infrastructure, the Chief Minister detailed several upcoming projects, including the construction of a ₹220 crore football stadium, which is expected to receive approval soon. Additionally, the government plans to construct ₹175 crore worth of concrete roads spanning 8 kilometers across district headquarters of hill areas to improve connectivity.
