The Manipur cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh, on Friday approved a set of austerity measures following a comprehensive security and expenditure review. These decisions align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for cost reduction amid global challenges.
Austerity Measures Approved
The cabinet decided to reduce VIP convoys, introduce work-from-home arrangements for certain employees, freeze government-funded foreign travel, and curb non-essential expenditure. These steps are intended to optimize resource utilization and promote fiscal discipline.
Key Proposals Cleared
In addition to austerity, the cabinet approved several key proposals:
- Filling 173 Auxiliary Nurse and Midwife (ANM) posts in the family welfare department, funded by the central government.
- Two-year age relaxation for upcoming recruitments to widen the applicant pool.
- Compensation rates for land acquisition along the Imphal–Jiribam and Imphal–Dimapur national highways to expedite expansion projects.
- Rationalisation of posts under the Manipur State Power Company Limited (MSPCL) for operational efficiency.
- Extension of the New Development Bank-funded Manipur Water Supply Project to improve water infrastructure.
- Green light for the Loktak Experience Project, aimed at developing Loktak Lake into a premier tourist destination, boosting local tourism and economy.
Additional Information
These decisions are part of the state's broader strategy to enhance governance, streamline expenditures, and promote development. The cabinet's moves are expected to have a positive impact on public services and infrastructure.
