IMPHAL | Frequent bandhs and blockades in Manipur are causing an estimated daily loss of Rs 25-30 crore in tax revenue, Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh said , as he underlined the economic impact of prolonged disruptions in the violence-affected state. Speaking at a Seva Sankalp Abhiyan programme at the Indian National Army Martyr’s Memorial Complex Hall in Bishnupur district, Singh said the crisis that began in 2023 had had a severe impact on the state’s economy, government revenue and livelihoods.

“Frequent bandhs and blockades called in the state have resulted in a loss of around Rs 25 crore to Rs 30 crore per day in tax revenue to the state government,” the chief minister said. Singh appealed to groups and individuals to resolve differences through dialogue and refrain from agitations that disrupt normal life and economic activity.

He also urged people advocating for the protection of Manipur to visit the state’s hill areas and assess the situation on the ground rather than rely ing solely on statements made without visiting affected areas. The chief minister said the prolonged crisis had particularly affected families dependent on daily wages. Following discussions during the recently concluded eighth session of the Manipur Assembly, the state government has decided to provide financial assistance of Rs 10,000 each to around 3,00,050 affected families.

The required budgetary provision has already been earmarked for implementing the assistance, Singh said. The government will also introduce a special financial assistance scheme for women street vendors ahead of the Ningol Chakouba festival in November, he announced. Women street vendors who have not yet registered for the scheme can enrol through their respective legislators, he said. Singh said the month-long Seva Sankalp Abhiyan was being observed across the country to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 25 years in public service and to promote the principles of public service and good governance.