Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh announced that a budgetary provision of Rs. 350 crore is being earmarked in the upcoming budget for assistance to those women who have been affected by the recent unrest. He also stated that such a provision will benefit 3.5 lakh women of the state.
The above announcement was made by the chief minister while attending International Women’s Day 2026 held at the City Convention Centre, Imphal, under the theme “Rights, Justice, Action for All Women and Girls.”
Speaking at the occasion, the chief minister prayed to the Almighty that, from today onwards, the people displaced by the unprecedented crisis in Manipur would finally be able to go back to their homes.
Lauding the courage of Manipuri women, Yumnam Khemchand Singh stated that in different phases of the history of Manipur, the Manipuri women have played crucial roles in Manipur’s economy and political issues of Manipur. A widow can nurture and mend their child to become a successful person even by selling vegetables and engaging in handloom work. He asserted that we are their sons and daughters.
MLA Naoriya Pakhanglakpa AC, Sagolshem Kebi Devi, stated that being a woman, she has always been participating in the celebration every year. Every woman should be well aware of the government schemes as well as the rights of women enshrined in the Constitution to protect herself from discrimination and injustice in society. In this regard, she urged that more women should actively participate in such programs.
While delivering his presidential speech, Dr. Puneet Kumar Goel expressed that this day is being celebrated to recognize the priceless contribution of women across our society. In Manipur, women have been the enduring pillars of the society.
An audio-visual presentation on Mission Shakti was presented during the program. The mission focuses on ensuring women’s safety, security, and economic empowerment.
During the celebration, the chief minister felicitated Nameirakpam Kunjarani Devi, weightlifter and Padmashree Awardee, and Mangka Mayanglambam, renowned Manipuri folk singer.
The celebration organized by the Department of Social Welfare, Government of Manipur, was attended by Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam, Tourism Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh, MLAs, administrative secretaries, and officials of the Social Welfare Department, among others.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Khemchand had a first-hand assessment of the facilities and services at the Urban Primary Health Centre, Singjamei, to review the accessibility and delivery of essential healthcare services to the public.
He emphasized that the government remains fully committed to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and extending all possible support so that quality medical care reaches every citizen. “Our collective effort is to ensure improved public health, wider access to medical services, and the well-being of all,” the chief minister said.
