Govt clarifies on Kuki MLAs' plea to DoNER minister
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, June 01 2024: In response to a memorandum submitted by the 10 Kuki-Zomi-Hmar MLAs to the Union Minister of DoNER, the state government has issued a clarification addressing the concerns raised regarding development projects in the hill districts of Manipur.

The state government explained that the Special Development Fund was not released in the year 2023-24 for any district due to non-submission of Utilisation Certificates (UCs) for funds released in 2022-23 .

The government acknowledged that works in the districts of Tengnoupal, Kangpokpi, Churachandpur, and Pherzawl were affected by law and order problems in 2023 and 2024 .

This disruption was similar in the valley areas as well.

Another significant issue highlighted was the difficulty in the movement of materials and labour across the state, which hampered the implementation of development works.

However, from the latter part of 2023, works had restarted in most districts.

Key projects under PMGSY, PWD, Pipeline, and Highway works resumed significantly in Churachandpur and Kangpokpi with the improvement of the law and order situation.

Additionally, water supply projects under Externally Aided Projects continued, along with other civil works in these areas.

The state government also mentioned that fund released for most projects across the state were impacted in 2023-24 due to a large loss of revenue caused by the unrest.

This financial strain was further exacerbated by the need to allocate funds for relief, security, and elections.

Regarding the NEC proposals for 2023-24 sent by the government, the state included a project for Churachandpur and Kangpokpi districts aimed at using horticulture crops to counter shifting cultivation.

Furthermore, apart from DoNER projects, the four districts of Tengnoupal, Kangpokpi, Churachandpur, and Pherzawl continue to receive funding under Externally Aided Projects and Centrally Sponsored Schemes across various Sectors, in addition to state-funded projects.

The state government emphasised its commitment to ensuring equitable development across all districts and addressing the concerns of the Kuki-Zomi-Hmar MLAs through continued project implementation and support.

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