Khemchand proposes 15K houses for IDPs to Ministry
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, January 04 2025:
Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (RD&PR) minister Yumnam Khemchand has proposed central assistance for the construction of 15,000 houses for families displaced by the ongoing crisis in the state.
Addressing a press meet at his office in the Old Secretariat on Saturday, Khemchand informed that he had a video conference with Union Minister of Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chauhan on Friday, during which he highlighted the plights of over 60,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Manipur.
Khemchand informed the media that during the virtual meeting, officials from the RD&PR department were also present as he sought a special package from the Ministry to rebuild homes for the displaced families.
The crisis, which has persisted for more than 20 months, has left tens of thousands without shelter or income.
Emphasising the urgency of the situation, Khemchand explained to the Union Minister about the dire conditions faced by the displaced population and sought early intervention.
The Union Minister responded positively, giving a verbal nod for the construction of 7,000 houses under the scheme.
However, Khemchand argued that 7,000 houses would fall short of meeting the needs of the affected families and urged Chauhan to consider assistance for 15,000 houses instead.
He also highlighted the financial challenges invoked, noting that the current assistance of Rs 1.3 lakh per house under central schemes would be insufficient given the high cost of construction materials in the state.
A single bag of cement in Manipur costs Rs 600 compared to Rs 350 in Assam, Khemchand pointed out, adding that the IDPs, having been without any income for nearly two years, are in no position to contribute additional funds for housing construction.
He urged the Union Minister to increase the assistance amount to a minimum of Rs 5 lakh per house to ensure meaningful support for the displaced families.
Khemchand expressed optimism that the proposal would be accepted, stating that the Union Minister assured him of examining the matter and taking the necessary steps to assist the IDPs.
During the press meet, Khemchand also stressed the need for unity among the people of Manipur, noting that communities cannot remain divided forever.
He called for concerted efforts to rebuild peaceful and harmonious relationships, similar to the pre-crisis period.
Acknowledging the anger of those who have borne the brunt of the crisis for over 20 months, Khemchand reiterated the government's commitment to restoring normalcy, emphasising that all-out efforts are being made in this regard.
The minister also provided updates on the state's progress under the Amrit Sarovar scheme, a part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav initiative.
The state has successfully developed 1,228 Amrit Sarovars, exceeding the target of 1,220 .
This achievement drew praise from the union minister during the virtual meeting, he said.
Responding to media queries, Khemchand addressed delays in releasing funds under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY).
He clarified that the delay was due to issues within the state's finance department, but assured that the funds are now with the treasury.
He informed that once 60 per cent of the total funds are utilised, the Centre would release an additional Rs 400 crore, enabling the state to initiate new road projects.
Meanwhile, the minister dismissed concerns about the return of PMGSY Phase-III funds to the Centre, explaining that delays were caused by technical adjustments made by the chief engineer to accommodate local contractors.
With the issue now resolved, fresh tenders will be issued soon.
Regarding chief minister N Biren's recent apology to those affected by the crisis, Khemchand described it as a sincere gesture and added that it was not something that should cause controversy in any manner.
Comment
