IMPHAL, July 22: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Wednesday distributed welfare benefits worth ₹91.66 crore to more than 2.4 lakh beneficiaries under 17 Social Welfare Department schemes and launched the Integrated Monthly Pension Processing System to streamline pension disbursement.
The programme, held at the City Convention Centre in Imphal, covered 2,40,758 beneficiaries with a total financial outlay of ₹91,66,50,772.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the state had faced difficult circumstances over the past three years, with the prolonged crisis causing financial and emotional hardships for the people.
He said the government had introduced several welfare measures under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and with the guidance of Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to ease the financial burden on citizens. Expressing confidence that the assistance would benefit vulnerable sections, he reiterated the government’s commitment to public welfare.
Emphasising the importance of lasting peace and development, Khemchand Singh said unity and hard work were essential for rebuilding the state. He urged people from all communities to identify themselves as Manipuris and work together for the progress and development of Manipur.
The Chief Minister also launched the Integrated Monthly Pension Processing System, which is designed to improve the efficiency, transparency and timely disbursement of pensions under various social welfare schemes.
Delivering the presidential address, Chief Secretary Dr Puneet Kumar Goel said recent years had been particularly challenging for many families, with women, children, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, widows and internally displaced persons bearing the brunt of the crisis.
He said the welfare distribution programme reflected the government’s commitment to inclusive development, social justice and the well-being of vulnerable sections of society.
The event was attended by Arts and Culture and Tourism Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh, MLAs, Social Welfare Commissioner Haobam Rosita, senior government officials, beneficiaries and students.
