As part of the Government initiative in popularizing Digital Payments, DigiDhan Melas are being organized in 100 cities over a period of 100 days. The initiative of the central government is also being inaugurated in the state with a function organized by the Department of Information Technology, Government of Manipur today at the City Convention Centre, Palace Compound. Chief Minister N Biren, MoS(Home Affairs) Kiren Rijiju, MoS(Railways) Rajen Gohain, Dy. CM Y Joykumar, Parl. Secy. (Finance) Th Satyabrata Singh and Parl. Secy(IT) Dr Sapam Ranjan Singh were present at the function as Chief Guest and Guests of Honour respectively. In his speech, the Chief Minister emphasised on the need to accelerate adoption of IT in the state by increasing internet connectivity in rural areas so that the benefits of instant connectivity can be enjoyed and utilized by everyone in the state. He also disclosed that Air Ambulance service with 75% central contribution and 25% state funding will soon be made operational. Continuing with the plans being drawn up to make radical changes in the state, N Biren also made public the plan of the state government to construct a 100 bed Mental Hospital to provide treatment to those who need psychological and mental assistance and care. Another speciality hospital for treatment of cancer is to follow suit according to the Chief Minister. In an effort to spruce up the deplorable conditions of Khuman Lampak Sports Complex which is considered one of the important landmarks of the state, the Chief Minister announced that floodlights will be installed in and around the Mani stadium as well as Hockey stadium. Touching on the issues of bandhs and blockades which has been the bane to progress and development of the state till now, the Chief Minister urged all student bodies, civil society organizations and groups of individuals to refrain from resorting to these disruptive and harmful measures to voice their concerns but to approach the Chief Minister for meaningful discussion and deliberation for which he is always ready. Reiterating the efforts of the new government to bring radical changes in the state in order to accelerate the pace of progress and inclusive development, he urged everyone to support and cooperate in the various government initiatives. As part of the inaugural function, MC Mary Kom also made a digital transaction while audio-visual presentations were made to the visitors and participants to elaborate on the concept of DigiDhan and its intended objectives.
