In a landmark announcement, Manipur Chief Secretary PK Singh confirmed on Friday that the state government has set an ambitious timeline to close all relief camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs) by December 2025, marking a critical step toward restoring normalcy after over two years of ethnic conflict and unrest.
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of an event, Singh disclosed that a comprehensive phased resettlement plan, shaped through detailed consultations with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the central government, is now being implemented.
🏠 Three-Phase Resettlement Timeline
| Phase | Target Period | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | July 2025 | Return of those who can immediately go back; IDP count drops from 62,000 to 57,000 |
| Phase 2 | October 2025 | Resettlement of IDPs with moderate challenges to return |
| Phase 3 | December 2025 | Final batch of resettlement; goal to close all relief camps |
💸 Financial Assistance for Rebuilding and Repairs
To support displaced families, Singh announced substantial financial aid:
₹1.3 lakh + ₹1.73 lakh: For each family whose home was completely destroyed.
Support for 7,000 IDPs: Whose homes, though intact, suffered significant deterioration from over two years of disuse.
🏘️ Pre-Fabricated Housing for the Most Affected
Recognizing the difficulties faced by 8,000–10,000 IDPs—especially those from Moreh, Churachandpur, and Kangpokpi—who cannot yet return to their original homes, Singh said they will be temporarily accommodated in pre-fabricated houses. He added:
“An additional 1,000 pre-fabricated units are under construction to meet this need, even as we move toward winding down all camps by December.”
🌉 Signs of Social Healing and Free Movement
Chief Secretary Singh expressed cautious optimism regarding the restoration of free movement across the state. Citing recent positive developments, he noted:
Joint farming efforts by members of both communities
Shared use of water sources, signaling a thaw in social tensions
“These are very good signs. We must give credit to the collaborative work of the Centre, state government, CSOs, and local leaders,” Singh said, urging all parties to remain calm and not be influenced by “mischievous elements.”
🏗️ Upcoming Inaugurations and Awaited PM Visit
Singh also confirmed that key infrastructure projects—including the Civil Secretariat and Manipur Bhavans in Delhi and Kolkata—are ready for inauguration. On the possibility of a visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Singh remarked:
“I am not aware of any confirmed plans, but expectations are certainly there.”