Imphal: The Manipur government on Sunday released more than Rs 5.88 crore from the State Emergency Fund to provide financial assistance to 58,863 eligible internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by ethnic violence and currently staying in relief camps across the state.
The special assistance of Rs 1,000 each has been disbursed through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) ahead of the Diwali and Ningol Chakouba festivals, a senior official of the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) said.
The funds have been transferred to the designated accounts of Deputy Commissioners across 10 districts — Imphal West, Imphal East, Churachandpur, Thoubal, Ukhrul, Kakching, Kangpokpi, Tengnoupal, Jiribam and Bishnupur.
The Deputy Commissioners have been directed to ensure timely disbursement of the assistance to eligible beneficiaries after due verification.
Financial Assistance for 58,863 Displaced Persons
The financial support is intended for people displaced by the ethnic violence that erupted in Manipur on May 3, 2023, and who continue to live in relief camps.
The IDP community has expressed gratitude to the state government, led by Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, for releasing the assistance ahead of the festive season.
Ningol Chakouba is a traditional festival of the Meitei community that celebrates the bond between married women and their paternal families.
Chief Minister Extends Diwali Greetings
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh extended his greetings and best wishes to the people of Manipur on Diwali.
He said the festival brings happiness, good health and renewed hope to every household, and expressed hope that its light would illuminate lives with peace and positivity.
The Chief Minister also called upon people to reaffirm their commitment to peace, progress and prosperity in Manipur.
Around 59,000 IDPs Continue to Receive Support
The Chief Minister had earlier said that although 36,000 internally displaced persons had already been resettled, the state government was continuing to provide financial assistance to around 59,000 people out of the total 60,000 IDPs.
These people remain in relief camps across 10 of Manipur’s 16 districts following the ethnic violence that broke out on May 3, 2023.