Union Budget 2024-25: Where is the Relief for Manipur?

The recent Union Budget 2024-25 presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has raised significant concerns regarding its approach toward addressing the needs of Manipur. Despite the state grappling with severe challenges, including major floods and prolonged ethnic violence, the budget appears to overlook the plight of its people.
The Finance Minister assured financial assistance for flood-hit Assam, but Manipur’s catastrophic hailstorm and consecutive floods—occurring for the first time in over two decades—received no mention in the budget speech. This exclusion is especially concerning given that over 60,000 people have been displaced due to ethnic violence, yet no specific aid has been allocated for their rehabilitation.
Manipur has been in turmoil for more than 14 months, and the people of the state expected a special package to address their unique challenges. However, the absence of such a package in the budget has only deepened the frustration and disappointment among the affected population.
The ruling BJP in Manipur, on the other hand, has praised the budget for its focus on holistic and inclusive development. According to state BJP spokesperson M Asnikumar, the budget aims to achieve inclusive social justice through various programmes covering education, health, and job creation. The proposed allocation of Rs 2 lakh crore for job creation over the next five years and the announcement of a new employment skilling scheme are seen as steps towards addressing unemployment and skill development.
Nevertheless, it is crucial to scrutinize whether these broader national initiatives adequately address the specific and urgent needs of Manipur. The state’s unique challenges, exacerbated by natural disasters and ethnic conflicts, require targeted interventions that go beyond general allocations. The exclusion of Manipur from specific mentions and aid packages in the budget raises questions about the Centre’s understanding and prioritization of the region’s issues.
Manipur’s recent history of ethnic violence has created a complex humanitarian crisis. The displacement of over 60,000 people is not just a statistic but a reflection of deep-seated social and ethnic tensions that need to be addressed with sensitivity and urgency. Financial aid and rehabilitation efforts are critical in restoring stability and fostering peace in the region.
Moreover, the impact of natural disasters, such as the catastrophic hailstorm and successive floods, has compounded the challenges faced by the people of Manipur. These events have caused extensive damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and livelihoods, necessitating immediate and substantial financial support for recovery and rebuilding efforts.
While the budget’s emphasis on job creation and skill development is commendable, it is essential to ensure that these initiatives reach the most affected and vulnerable populations in Manipur. The Centre must consider the unique socio-economic dynamics of the state and tailor its policies and programmes accordingly. This includes providing targeted financial assistance, infrastructure development, and support for displaced communities.
In conclusion, the Union Budget 2024-25 has sparked a critical debate about the Centre’s approach to addressing the needs of Manipur. The state’s recent experiences with ethnic violence and natural disasters demand focused and immediate attention. It is imperative for the government to recognize and respond to these challenges with specific and substantial measures that go beyond general allocations. Only through targeted interventions can the Centre demonstrate its commitment to the holistic and inclusive development of Manipur and its people.