Imphal, May 30: Amidst hard economic issues faced by Manipur, there is a growing demand for a streamlined Public Distribution System (PDS) under the watch of the central government. The state’s tribal affairs & hills department’s budgetary allocation, expenditure, diversion, and reforms in the plains/valley and hills arrangement are crucial aspects that need attention.
The political aspirations of the hills’ population, which contributes 20 MLAs to the 60-member Manipur Assembly, also need to be addressed.
The recent outbreak of ethnic violence since May 3 has created a highly disturbed situation in the state, making life challenging and insecure for the common people. The Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF), representing recognized tribes in Churachandpur district, has emphasized the urgent need for an improved PDS.
They demand that the Union government takes full responsibility for the supply of essential commodities at affordable prices. The ITLF secretary, Muan Tombing, expressed concerns about the discriminatory treatment by the administration and the dependency of tribal families on supplies from Mizoram due to the prevailing situation.
While budget allocation is essential, efficient deployment of funds is equally crucial for the welfare of the hills’ population. The actual expenditure often falls short of the allocated amount, raising questions about its effectiveness. Various funding sources, including the state plan, special central assistance, grants, and centrally-sponsored schemes, contribute to the department’s finances.
To ensure better utilization of funds, a committee was formed to examine the funds released to the districts over the past decade. The committee noted a fluctuating trend but observed improvement from 2017-18, attributed to higher spending in several departments.
The committee’s report highlighted the skewed distribution of funds between hill and valley districts, particularly in beneficiary-based schemes. To address this issue, the study suggested a composite tribal sub-plan financed by a pool of state allocation and special central assistance. This approach would establish an institutionalized administrative mechanism and facilitate better monitoring of fund utilization.
Also Read: Nearly 20 Unique Products from Tripura Likely to Receive GI Tags Shortly
The demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status by the Meitei community, which began in 2012 and intensified with a Manipur High Court ruling, has led to ethnic tensions and clashes. The demand stems from land-related issues, as Meiteis are restricted from buying land in the hills while tribals can purchase land in the Imphal valley.
The population dynamics have also played a role, with a decrease in the Meitei population and an influx of tribals from Myanmar. This situation has given rise to new villages in the hills, illegal activities, and opium cultivation.
The Manipur Assembly’s Hill Areas Committee has opposed the Meitei community’s ST status demand, causing further contention. Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s upcoming visit to Imphal and discussions with relevant stakeholders will lay the foundation for a reconciliation process.
However, the unilateral withdrawal of the state government from the tripartite agreement on Suspension of Operations (SoO) has complicated matters. The state government’s strong police action in the hills and the subsequent deployment of the Army have raised questions about the Chief Minister’s decision and the role of the central government.
In light of assurances given by the ruling BJP leadership, rebel groups such as the Kuki National Organisation and United People’s Front have offered their support. It remains to be seen how the central government will fulfill these assurances and address the political aspirations of various groups. The outcome of these efforts will determine whether the Manipur House can proceed with its normal sessions in the coming days.
