Imphal, Sep 22 (PTI) Asserting that the ethnic violence has affected the state’s economy, Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh on Tuesday called for collective efforts to speed up development initiatives in the state and emphasised that problems can be resolved through discussion.
He also said that the state has incurred around Rs 1,300 crore loss in revenue collection in the last three years.
The ethnic conflict that erupted in May 2023 between the valley-based Meitei and the hill-based Kuki communities has claimed at least 306 lives, with 49 individuals remaining missing and thousands left homeless.
Speaking on the economic scenario in the wake of ethnic strife, Singh said the “unprecedented situation has caused substantial impact on the state’s economy”.
During the 2023-24 financial year, the state had lost around Rs 475 crore in GST collection.
“A total of around 1,300 crore was lost in the state’s revenue collection in the last three years,” he added.
Bandh and blockade affect common people, particularly daily wage earners and those dependent on daily economic activity, he said.
The chief minister appealed to the people to approach their respective MLAs and the government to register their grievances.
The government’s doors remain “open for dialogue”, he said, adding that “problems can be resolved through discussion”.
“There is a need for collective efforts towards economic development. The people of Manipur must work together peacefully and contribute towards the state’s development and in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047,” he said
Singh made the remarks at the ‘Seva Sankalp Abhiyan’ programme organised by the Imphal West District administration at Khoyathong Multipurpose Community Hall.
During the event, the chief minister interacted with those present at more than 30 service counters and stalls showcasing various schemes and services of government departments and institutions.
Speaking on the significance of the initiative, Singh said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has completed 25 years of public service and has articulated the vision of a Viksit Bharat 2047, intending to build India as a developed nation.
The month-long programme would be carried out in assembly constituencies to assess whether benefits of government schemes are reaching the eligible people.
“Wherever gaps are found in the delivery of schemes, the government takes necessary steps to ensure that eligible beneficiaries receive the benefits,” the chief minister said.
He also stressed that direct interaction with the public would help identify difficulties at the grassroots and improve last-mile delivery.
Referring to the recent deferment of the Census exercise in Manipur, Singh said that the state government had discussed the concerns raised by the people with the Centre.
(PTI News)
