Has the Manipur government launched a Rs 523 crore package to support 60,000 violence-affected individuals?
Synopsis
Discover the Manipur government's ambitious Rs 523 crore package aimed at rehabilitating 60,000 individuals displaced by violence. This initiative underscores a commitment to restoring lives and communities following the tragic ethnic violence of May 2023. Learn about the phased resettlement strategy and hear the voices of those affected.
Key Takeaways
Manipur government introduces Rs 523 crore rehabilitation package Approximately 60,000 IDPs to benefit from the initiative Phased resettlement process addressing various needs Focus on security, infrastructure, and livelihood Over 300 relief camps established for displaced individuals
Imphal, Jan 15 (NationPress) The government of Manipur has launched a substantial Rs 523 crore rehabilitation initiative aimed at aiding approximately 60,000 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), who have been residing in relief camps since the onset of ethnic conflict in May 2023, as reported by officials on Thursday.
A high-ranking official from the Home Department revealed that the administration has commenced a phased resettlement process under the Resettlement and Rehabilitation Package of Rs 523 crore, which was highlighted in the Manipur budget for 2025-26.
Since February 13 of last year, Manipur has been under President’s Rule. On August 7, the Lok Sabha approved the Manipur Budget for 2025-26, allocating a total of Rs 30,969.44 crore (from Rs 35,103.90 crore presented in March 2025).
The budget was introduced by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman under Article 356.
The official explained that in the initial phase, families whose homes were partially damaged would be resettled, while the second phase would focus on families granted housing under the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) (Special Package) within their own districts.
The third phase will cater to families needing relocations between Valley and Hill districts, necessitating better coordination, infrastructure enhancements, and security measures.
In a correspondence to representatives of IDPs and the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), which is a leading body of the Meitei community, Special Secretary (Home) A Subhash Singh emphasized that the rehabilitation and resettlement of IDPs is the utmost humanitarian priority for the state government.
“It is important to note that resettlement hinges on several critical factors such as the security situation, site readiness, land availability, funding flow, climate conditions, and livelihood viability. As such, the process is being executed in a phased, adaptable, and pragmatic manner instead of a strict, one-time, deadline-driven approach,” the letter clarified.
Meanwhile, on January 12, hundreds of IDPs affected by violence staged a protest rally in Imphal, seeking a favorable response from Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla regarding their resettlement.
Supported by COCOMI, the IDPs organized the rally, demanding that displaced families be permitted to return to their original locations with sufficient security measures.
A team led by COCOMI Convenor Khuraijam Athouba met with Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel and afterwards engaged with the Governor, at which point the protestors dispersed.
An official from Lok Bhavan noted that the COCOMI-IDPs delegation met with the Governor at Lok Bhavan in Imphal, where they conveyed their concerns regarding the circumstances of the displaced individuals and highlighted various issues that require attention.
“Conversations also covered topics related to arrangements in specific areas bordering the Valley and Hill regions,” the official stated. The Governor acknowledged the delegation and confirmed that efforts regarding resettlement and rehabilitation are already in progress.
“Governor Bhalla reiterated that steps are being taken to facilitate the safe and gradual return of IDPs,” added the Lok Bhavan official.
The state government has set up over 300 relief camps throughout the Imphal Valley and hilly areas to accommodate more than 60,000 men, women, and children displaced since the outbreak of ethnic violence in May 2023.
Point of View
The situation in Manipur calls for urgent attention. The government's substantial financial commitment highlights the seriousness of the ongoing humanitarian crisis. As we navigate the complexities of resettlement under challenging circumstances, it is vital to prioritize the safety and well-being of those affected, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs addressed.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Rs 523 crore package?
The Rs 523 crore package aims to rehabilitate approximately 60,000 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) affected by ethnic violence in Manipur since May 2023.
How will the resettlement process be implemented?
The resettlement process will be conducted in phases, focusing first on families with partially damaged homes, followed by those under the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G), and finally families requiring inter-district relocation.
What factors will influence the resettlement process?
The resettlement process will depend on several critical factors, including security conditions, site readiness, land availability, funding, climate, and livelihood feasibility.
How many relief camps have been established?
The state government has set up over 300 relief camps across the Imphal Valley and hilly regions to provide shelter to displaced individuals.
What is the role of COCOMI in this situation?
COCOMI, the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity, is advocating for the rights and needs of the IDPs, organizing protests and meetings with government officials to push for their resettlement.
