Manipur CM Seeks Central Aid to Boost State's Financial Health
Manipur CM Yumnam Khemchand Singh meets Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to seek central aid and discuss the state's financial health.
In a critical move to stabilize the economy of the North Eastern state, Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh met with Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs, Nirmala Sitharaman, in New Delhi. The high-level meeting, held at Kartavya Bhawan, focused primarily on the Manipur financial health and the urgent need for enhanced central assistance to overcome current economic hurdles.
Pushing for Central Support Amid Revenue Losses
During the discussions, Chief Minister Khemchand Singh brought to the Union Minister's attention the significant revenue losses Manipur has endured over the past three years. He emphasized that these losses have created a financial crisis, prompting him to urge the Centre to provide necessary support to help the state recover and maintain stability.
As part of the request for financial relief, the Chief Minister specifically sought additional funding under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme, which is aimed at boosting capital expenditure in states.
Commitment to Fiscal Discipline
Despite the challenges, the Chief Minister highlighted the state government's dedication to maintaining strict financial discipline. He informed Minister Sitharaman that Manipur has successfully managed its fiscal responsibilities, ensuring that employees and pensioners receive their payments on the very first working day of every month.
Progress on Development Projects
The meeting also served as a platform to review the progress of various developmental initiatives within the state. Key points of discussion included:
- Externally Aided Projects (EAPs): The Chief Minister provided updates on the progress and status of projects funded by external agencies.
- Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS): He briefed the Finance Minister on how various CSS and other central developmental projects are being effectively implemented on the ground.
Positive Outlook from the Centre
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman responded positively to the concerns and requests raised by the Chief Minister. She provided an assurance that the Central Government would extend all possible help and support to the Manipur government to improve the state's overall financial health.
Adding a cultural touch to the official visit, Yumnam Khemchand Singh presented the Union Minister with a traditional Lengyan and a painting of Radha Krishna as tokens of appreciation.