Daijiworld Media Network - Imphal
Imphal, May 30: Manipur chief minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Saturday emphasised that the state’s long-term progress and stability depend on the inclusive development of all 36 communities across both hill and valley regions.
Speaking at an interactive programme with post-matric scholarship beneficiaries under the Scheduled Tribe category, the Chief Minister said that sustainable peace, unity, and development can only be achieved when every community is equally empowered and benefits from government welfare initiatives.
The session was organised by the Department of Tribal Affairs and Hills as part of the “Janjatiya Garima Utsav 2026” celebrations during the “Birsa Lives in New Bharat” Week in Imphal.
Highlighting the importance of peace for development, Singh noted that periods of unrest disproportionately affect students and daily wage earners. He stressed that dialogue and mutual understanding among communities remain the only viable path toward lasting harmony in the state.
He urged students to actively contribute towards strengthening social cohesion and maintaining peaceful relations across communities.
The Chief Minister said that scholarship schemes are designed to promote equality and support educational opportunities for students from all backgrounds. He also acknowledged reports of delays in scholarship disbursement, noting that funds had already been released but administrative issues such as Aadhaar and bank linkage mismatches had caused delays in some cases.
He directed officials to resolve such issues promptly so that beneficiaries receive their entitlements without further inconvenience.
Education, he said, plays a central role in shaping the future of young people, and the government remains committed to ensuring that welfare schemes reach intended beneficiaries without disruption.
Speaking virtually at the event, Deputy Chief Minister and Tribal Affairs & Hills Minister Nemcha Kipgen said the programme highlighted the importance of education in empowering tribal youth and strengthening community development.
She said the Post-Matric Scholarship scheme serves not only as financial assistance but also as a crucial support system enabling students to continue their academic journey and pursue their aspirations.
Kipgen added that observing the programme during the “Birsa Lives in New Bharat” Week gave it added significance, noting that the legacy of tribal leader Birsa Munda continues to inspire dignity, self-respect, and social progress.
During the interactive session, students raised concerns regarding delays in scholarship payments, improvements in implementation mechanisms, and enhancement of stipend support. Participants from the Kuki-Zo community in Churachandpur and Kangpokpi districts also joined virtually and shared their grievances.
Responding to the issues raised, the Chief Minister assured the students that the government would examine their concerns and take appropriate corrective measures.
Senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary (Tribal Affairs & Hills) Vivek Kumar Dewangan, Director of Tribal Affairs & Hills/TRI Rangnamei Rang Peter, and other departmental representatives, attended the programme along with scholarship beneficiaries and invited guests.