Manipur Government Prioritizes Resettlement of Displaced Individuals Amid Ongoing Challenges
Government's Commitment to Resettlement
On Wednesday, the Manipur government reaffirmed that resettling displaced individuals remains its top priority, with extensive security assessments being conducted at all proposed resettlement sites.
In a letter addressed to representatives of displaced persons and the 'Manipur Integrity Coordinating Committee', Special Secretary (Home) A. Subhash Singh emphasized that the resettlement process is contingent on various factors. These include the security situation, readiness of resettlement sites, land availability, funding arrangements, climatic conditions, and livelihood opportunities.
Since May 2023, ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities have resulted in at least 260 fatalities and left thousands homeless in Manipur. The state has been under President's Rule since February 2025.
The letter stated, 'The resettlement of internally displaced persons is of utmost priority. This process is being implemented in a phased, dynamic, and practical manner rather than as a one-time or deadline-driven measure.'
The government has developed a comprehensive resettlement plan that encompasses around 60,000 displaced individuals under various schemes. This plan not only focuses on resettlement but also addresses the education, livelihoods, and overall welfare of the displaced population.
According to the letter, the phased resettlement has commenced under the announced ₹523 crore resettlement and rehabilitation package in the Manipur budget for 2025-26. The first phase includes the resettlement of families whose homes were partially damaged.
The second phase involves families provided housing in their respective districts under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) (special package), while the third phase includes inter-district resettlement between valley and hill districts. All these efforts require improved coordination, infrastructure development, and security arrangements.