The Union government has sanctioned ₹153.36 crore in additional central assistance to Manipur for recovery efforts following the devastating hailstorm that struck the state earlier in 2024. The approval was given by the High-Level Committee (HLC) chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced on Monday. The financial support will be provided from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) to aid the state’s ongoing relief and rehabilitation work. The assistance, however, will be adjusted against 50% of the opening balance in the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) for the year, the ministry clarified.
The decision follows a damage assessment report submitted by the Manipur government, which highlighted extensive destruction to homes, farmlands, and public infrastructure across multiple districts due to the hailstorm. In its official statement, the MHA said, “The Central Government remains committed to supporting disaster-affected states and ensuring timely release of funds for relief efforts.” The ministry added that this move underscores the Centre’s focus on disaster resilience and responsive governance.
The Manipur government is expected to use the funds for restoration of essential services, distribution of relief, and compensation to affected families and farmers. Earlier, the state had submitted a memorandum to the Centre seeking urgent financial support after widespread crop damage and property loss were reported. Officials said the funding will help speed up recovery, especially in rural and economically vulnerable communities, ensuring that affected residents can rebuild their lives without delay.
