Imphal, March 18: Emphasising the critical link between development and stability, Yumnam Khemchand Singh on March 18 said that lasting peace cannot be achieved without inclusive growth, asserting that sustained stability depends on development reaching all sections of society.
The Chief Minister was addressing the State Credit Seminar in Imphal during the launch of the State Focus Paper 2026–27, themed “Credit-Led Development in Manipur.” The document outlines sector-wise credit potential and priority areas for the upcoming financial year.
Highlighting the role of institutional finance, Singh described credit as more than a financial tool, calling it a key driver of grassroots development. He urged banks and financial institutions to expand support for Farmer-Producer Organisations, rural start-ups, agri-entrepreneurs and Self-Help Groups to accelerate economic activity at the local level.
The paper estimates a credit potential of approximately ₹3,500 crore for 2026–27, with 51 per cent allocated to agriculture and allied sectors, 37 per cent to the MSME segment, and 12 per cent to other priority areas. Officials said the projections align with the state’s development priorities and reflect changes in the rural economic landscape.
Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel pointed to key challenges such as fragmented landholdings and increasing climate risks, stressing the need for diversification and value addition to enhance farm incomes. He noted that allied sectors like animal husbandry, fisheries and horticulture offer significant potential for employment and income generation.
Singh also underscored opportunities in horticulture, fisheries, handloom and handicrafts, stating that the banking sector has a crucial role in unlocking growth in these areas.
During the event, a tribal development project in Churachandpur district was virtually inaugurated with a grant of ₹1.6 crore, aimed at improving livelihoods in hill regions through community-based initiatives.
Officials from National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development described the State Focus Paper as a key planning document for credit monitoring, developed using district-level potential-linked plans.
Calling for coordinated action, the Chief Minister urged government agencies, banks and development institutions to enhance credit absorption and implementation, stressing the need for renewed commitment towards building a self-reliant Manipur.
