Manipur Conflict Triggers Massive Revenue Loss as Pension Hikes Announced

Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh revealed a staggering Rs 1,200 crore drop in state GST revenue between 2023 and 2026. The ongoing ethnic conflict fueled this decline. Frequent bandhs and blockades crippled local business activity.

Speaking on September 16 at the 52nd Foundation Day of the All Manipur Working Journalists' Union in Imphal, Khemchand urged civil society groups to abandon protest blockades. He stated, “Prolonged conflict in the state had resulted in a decline of more than Rs 1,200 crore in GST revenue from 2023 to 2026, putting considerable pressure on Manipur's economy.” The violence between Meitei and Kuki communities has killed at least 306 people. Thousands remain displaced. Another 49 individuals are still missing.

Economic recovery efforts remain the priority. Khemchand also addressed the welfare of the press. He pledged to raise monthly journalist pensions from Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000. Family pension payments will climb from Rs 5,000 to Rs 7,000. He plans to submit these increases to the state Cabinet for approval.

The administration also cleared Rs 1 crore in pending advertisement bills. Journalists affected by the crisis will receive a one-time relaxation to reactivate lapsed accounts in the DIPR Pension Scheme. Attendees at the Manipur Press Club event included MLA Khongbantabam Ibomcha and AMWJU president Asem Bhakta Singh. The program started with tributes at the memorial pillar.