CM Biren Singh however emphasized ongoing efforts to curb illegal immigration, including biometric registration of undocumented migrants. Starting January 15, 2025, Aadhaar-linked birth registration will be mandatory, initially rolled out in three districts. Updates to the registry will be required every five years. “This initiative follows reports of a 420% increase in electoral rolls in certain districts,” he stated.
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Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has publicly apologized for the violence that has plagued the state since May 3, 2023. In an emotional appeal, he urged all sections of society to forgive and forget the past, embracing peace and harmony in the upcoming year.
“I want to say sorry to the entire state,” CM Biren said during a press briefing at his residence in Imphal on Tuesday.
Highlighting the government’s achievements and future plans, the Chief Minister announced a series of measures to foster peace, development, and welfare in Manipur.
Affordable Air Travel Initiative
To address high airfares, the state government will launch Alliance Air services on three routes—Imphal-Guwahati, Imphal-Kolkata, and Imphal-Dimapur—operating twice a week. The fare will not exceed ₹5,000, with the government offering subsidies if the limit is crossed.
Tackling Population Influx
Biren emphasized ongoing efforts to curb illegal immigration, including biometric registration of undocumented migrants. Starting January 15, 2025, Aadhaar-linked birth registration will be mandatory, initially rolled out in three districts. Updates to the registry will be required every five years.
“This initiative follows reports of a 420% increase in electoral rolls in certain districts,” he stated.
Resettlement and Security Measures
The government has resettled 2,058 displaced families in areas such as Imphal West, Imphal East, Kangpokpi, and Churachandpur. To ensure safety along the national highways, 17 and 18 additional companies of security personnel have been deployed on NH-2 and NH-37, respectively. The forces include the Indian Army, CRPF, BSF, and State Police.
Incidents of firing in peripheral areas have significantly decreased due to the deployment of central forces in vulnerable regions bordering the hill and valley districts.
“Peace is being restored, and the solution lies in discussion and dialogue, which the central government has already initiated,” Biren remarked.
Recovery of Looted Arms
Out of approximately 6,000 arms looted from state armories during the unrest, over 3,000 have been recovered. Authorities have arrested 625 individuals and registered 12,247 FIRs in connection with the incidents.
Strengthening Security and Law Enforcement
The government has equipped security forces with 40 bulletproof vehicles, including 10 Mine-Protected Vehicles, along with advanced firearms such as Mini Machine Guns (MMGs) and sniper rifles. Special combat training for 1,000 newly recruited IRB personnel will be led by former Colonel Sanjenbam Nectar.
Focus on Welfare and Development
The Chief Minister announced enhanced support for displaced people and unveiled plans to recognize exemplary educators in primary, graduate, and lecturer categories. Awardees will receive double annual increments in their salaries.
Additionally, the Dearness Allowance (DA) for government employees will be increased from 32% to 39%.
Biren concluded by calling for collective efforts to restore Manipur to its pre-May 3, 2023, state of peace and prosperity.