New Delhi: As Manipur navigates through a period of political instability under President’s Rule, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has underscored the government’s commitment to bolstering the state’s economy. Recently, she presented the Manipur budget for 2025-26 in the Lok Sabha, outlining a significant increase in expenditure to Rs 35,103.90 crore. This move is part of a broader strategy to enhance economic development and improve the law and order situation in the state.
The budget for the upcoming fiscal year marks a substantial increase from the previous year’s allocation of Rs 32,656.81 crore. It includes provisions for over Rs 2,000 crore under special assistance for capital investment and a notable Rs 9,520 crore for social sector outlay. These allocations are designed to stimulate economic growth and address social challenges in the region.
Sitharaman emphasized that despite some sporadic incidents, the overall law and order situation in Manipur has shown improvement. This progress is attributed to the collective efforts of both the central and state governments. Additionally, she highlighted ongoing efforts to recover looted arms and ammunition, a critical step in restoring stability.
The financial support package for Manipur is comprehensive, aiming to accelerate economic recovery. The state’s current status under President’s Rule, following a proclamation under Article 356 of the Constitution on February 13, 2025, underscores the need for robust central intervention. Sitharaman’s assurance of continuous financial backing is pivotal in this context, as it seeks to address the state’s economic challenges while ensuring the well-being of its residents.
