HousingScheme – Centre Clears 5,000 Homes for Displaced Families in Manipur
HousingScheme – The Union government has cleared the construction of 5,000 homes under the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana–Gramin to rehabilitate families displaced by ethnic unrest in Manipur. The decision is aimed at providing permanent shelter to thousands who have been living in temporary relief camps since violence erupted in the state last year.
Approval Follows High-Level Meeting in Delhi
The clearance came after Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh met Union Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan in New Delhi. The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Ministers Nemcha Kipgen and Yumnam Losii Dikho. According to officials from the Chief Minister’s Office, the Union minister assured full cooperation in restoring stability and normal life in the state.
Earlier this month, the Manipur government had submitted a proposal seeking approval for a special housing project under the rural housing scheme. The proposal outlined the need to construct 5,000 houses specifically for internally displaced persons who lost their homes during the violence.
Special Survey Window to Identify Eligible Families
To facilitate the initiative, the Ministry of Rural Development approved a special window under the Awaas+ 2024 household survey. This measure will enable the state government to record details of families affected by the conflict who qualify for assistance. Authorities have also been allowed to continue registering eligible beneficiaries under this special project category.
Officials said that identification of beneficiaries will be carried out strictly in accordance with the guidelines laid down under the rural housing scheme. The houses will be built following the framework prescribed for the implementation of the programme, ensuring uniform standards and transparency.
In addition, the state government has been permitted to sanction houses for beneficiaries who had previously received financial assistance under the scheme but whose homes were later destroyed in the violence. This move is expected to prevent duplication while ensuring that genuine claimants are not left out of the rehabilitation effort.
Focus on Restoring Stability and Development
The housing approval comes amid ongoing efforts to restore peace and rebuild trust among communities in Manipur. During a separate meeting earlier this week, Chief Minister Biren Singh met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and briefed him on steps taken by the state administration to improve law and order and support displaced families.
According to officials, the Chief Minister also urged the Prime Minister to pay special attention to women’s empowerment initiatives across both the hill and valley regions of the state. He extended an invitation to the Prime Minister to visit Manipur and review the situation firsthand.
Background of the Displacement Crisis
Ethnic violence broke out in Manipur in May 2023 between members of the Meitei community and Kuki-Zo tribal groups. The unrest led to widespread destruction of property and loss of life. Official estimates indicate that around 260 people were killed, while nearly 60,000 residents were forced to flee their homes.
Although the intensity of violence has reduced in recent months, a significant number of affected families continue to reside in relief camps. Many are dependent on government aid and community support while waiting for permanent rehabilitation.
The approval of 5,000 houses under the rural housing scheme marks a significant step toward long-term recovery. By offering permanent homes to displaced families, the Centre and the state government aim to provide stability and encourage affected communities to rebuild their lives.
Authorities have indicated that implementation will begin once beneficiary identification is completed and administrative procedures are finalized. Officials maintain that the initiative is part of a broader plan to restore confidence, rebuild infrastructure, and promote inclusive development across Manipur.