The Manipur government on Tuesday urged residents — especially Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) — to extend their full support to the upcoming Sangai Festival, scheduled from November 21 to 30, describing the event as a crucial step in the state’s journey toward recovery, economic revival, and social harmony. Officials said the festival, one of Manipur’s most prominent cultural showcases, is being positioned as a platform to help communities “move forward, together” after months of hardship and instability. Senior government officials highlighted the importance of the festival in restoring public confidence and rebuilding connections among communities that have been deeply affected by the recent crisis.
The Chief Secretary acknowledged the ongoing challenges faced by displaced families and reaffirmed that humanitarian relief continues to be a priority. The state is currently spending around ₹18 crore per month on monetary assistance and the management of relief camps to support those who remain uprooted. Under a Special Relief Package sanctioned by the Union Government, ₹523 crore has been allocated to assist long-term rehabilitation efforts. This includes ₹180 crore earmarked for restoring damaged houses and ₹250 crore for rebuilding critical public assets such as health centres, community halls, schools and water supply systems — all of which will support the eventual resettlement of displaced citizens.
Even as relief work continues, the government said the Sangai Festival plays a vital complementary role by stimulating economic activity and creating new market opportunities for local craftsmen, farmers, weavers, and entrepreneurs. Through exhibitions, performances, indigenous sports, food festivals and tourism promotions, the event aims to showcase Manipur’s cultural richness while drawing national and international attention to the state’s potential in sectors such as arts, handicrafts, agriculture and IT. Emphasising inclusive governance, officials reiterated that the government’s “doors remain wide open” for grievances, feedback and constructive suggestions from all communities. They said meaningful engagement was essential to building long-term stability and fostering trust.
