Manipur lost INR 1,300 cr. revenue in 3 years — CM Khemchand Singh

IMPHAL — Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh said the unprecedented situation following the May 3, 2023 incident has had a substantial impact on the state’s economy, with the government losing around INR 1,300 crore in revenue collection over the past three years.

Speaking at the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan programme organised by the Imphal West district administration at Khoyathong in Imphal West, Khemchand said the state suffered a loss of around INR 475 crore in GST collection during the 2023-24 financial year.

The Seva Sankalp Abhiyan, which began on September 17 to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday and 25 years of public service, featured various government schemes and services.

The Chief Minister said bandhs and blockades adversely affect the common people, particularly daily wage earners and those dependent on daily economic activities.

He appealed to people to refrain from such measures and instead approach their respective MLAs or the government to raise their grievances.

“The government’s doors remain open for dialogue,” Khemchand said, adding that problems could be resolved through discussion.

Calling for collective efforts towards economic development, the Chief Minister cited Singapore as an example of a small country that has achieved a high level of economic progress.

He said people from different communities in Singapore identify themselves as Singaporeans and work together for the country’s development.

Khemchand appealed to the people of Manipur to work together peacefully and contribute to the state’s development and the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.

On the recent deferment of the Census exercise in Manipur, he said the state government had discussed concerns raised by the people with the Centre.

He said the Centre subsequently deferred the exercise in view of the concerns and aspirations expressed by the people.