Manipur Government Working to Facilitate Return of IDPs to Their Homes, Says CM Yumnam Khemchand Singh

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has said that the state government is working to facilitate the return of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) to their respective homes and villages.

Speaking in Imphal on Monday, October 5, the Chief Minister said the government has held several rounds of discussions with representatives of civil society organisations (CSOs) to bridge the trust deficit that has emerged during the crisis.

Government Focuses on IDP Return and Rehabilitation

Khemchand Singh said that since the formation of the new government on February 4, 2026, efforts have been made to create conditions for displaced people to return to their homes.

He acknowledged the difficulties faced by people living in relief camps, saying that being unable to return to one's own home has been deeply distressing. He also said that the crisis has caused suffering among people in both the hills and the valley.

The Chief Minister said the government is holding discussions with civil society representatives and IDP groups in an effort to address grievances and rebuild trust.

₹2.19 Crore in Benefits Distributed

Khemchand made the remarks while participating in a programme under the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan at the City Convention Centre in Imphal.

During the programme, benefits worth ₹2,19,25,000 were distributed to eligible labour card holders, particularly IDPs, under various schemes of the Manipur Building and Other Construction Workers' Welfare Board (MBOCWWB).

Of the beneficiaries, 2,531 people received around ₹1.42 crore under the Special Scheme for Financial Assistance for the Education of Children Staying in Relief Camps.

In addition, eight beneficiaries received around ₹19 lakh under the Immediate Assistance in Case of Accident (Accidental Death) scheme, while 194 beneficiaries received around ₹58.20 lakh under the Natural Death Benefit scheme.

Around 2,531 IDPs Receiving Direct Assistance

The Chief Minister said around 2,531 IDPs are currently receiving assistance through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

He urged IDPs who have not yet registered with the authorities to complete the registration process so that they can access government assistance.

The government is also working to ensure that displaced students benefit from Mission Pathshala, while regular meetings are being held with IDP representatives to address their concerns.

Resettlement Efforts Underway

In a specific resettlement effort, the government is working to facilitate the return of 30 families under Torbung Gram Panchayat, according to local reports.

Plans include shifting security forces currently occupying the village and renovating damaged houses to facilitate the families' return.

The government has also emphasised that assistance to displaced people is being provided through various welfare schemes to help meet their basic needs.

Bus Services Provide Relief to Students and Sportspersons

The Chief Minister also highlighted the resumption of bus services on the Imphal–Dimapur–Guwahati route.

He said the service has reduced the financial burden on students studying outside Manipur and sportspersons travelling outside the state for tournaments, particularly because airfares remain expensive.

According to Khemchand Singh, around 450 to 500 passengers are using the public transport service every day.

The inter-state passenger bus services between Manipur, Assam and Nagaland resumed on August 21 after a gap of more than three years.

Government Seeks to Bridge Trust Deficit

The Chief Minister's comments underline the government's focus on rehabilitation and rebuilding confidence among communities affected by the crisis.

However, Khemchand Singh has also acknowledged that the resumption of transport services does not mean that complete peace and normalcy have returned to the state.

The government's discussions with civil society organisations and IDP representatives are therefore expected to remain an important part of its efforts to facilitate safe and sustainable returns.

Expert View

The Manipur government's focus on IDP rehabilitation combines immediate financial assistance with efforts to address the trust deficit that has emerged during the crisis. The proposed return of families to their homes will depend not only on welfare support but also on security, restoration of damaged properties and confidence among affected communities.

Key Takeaway

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has said the state government is working to facilitate the return of internally displaced people to their homes. The government has held talks with civil society organisations, provided financial assistance to thousands of IDPs and is working on specific resettlement initiatives. The government is also using welfare schemes and Mission Pathshala to support displaced families and students.