Manipur Chief Minister Requests Central Aid for Financial Crisis
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh met Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to request central funding to offset revenue losses caused by violence and blockades in Manipur.
Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh met with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman at Kartavya Bhawan in New Delhi on Thursday to request enhanced central assistance to address a severe state financial crisis. Singh reported that prolonged violence, highway blockades, and shutdowns resulted in Goods and Services Tax (GST) revenue losses between Rs 1,200 crore and Rs 1,300 crore from 2023 to 2026, including a loss of Rs 475 crore in the 2023–24 fiscal year alone.
During the meeting, Singh detailed the state's mounting financial pressure, noting that total borrowings, debt, and liabilities reached Rs 32,590.57 crore by March 31, 2026. Despite these losses, he highlighted the state's commitment to fiscal discipline, specifically its ability to maintain timely payments for employee salaries and pensions. He also provided updates on Centrally Sponsored Schemes and Externally Aided Projects.
Singh specifically urged for additional funding under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme to mitigate the revenue shortfall. Minister Sitharaman responded positively to the requests, assuring the Chief Minister that the central government would provide all possible help and support to improve the financial health of Manipur.
