IMPHAL:Â Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh announced that a budgetary provision of Rs 350 crore is being earmarked in the upcoming budget for assistance to those women who have been affected by the recent unrest. He also stated that such a provision will benefit 3.5 lakh women of Manipur.
The above announcement was made by the Chief Minister while attending International Women’s Day 2026 held at City Convention Centre, Imphal under the theme “Rights, Justice, Action for All Women and Girls” on Sunday.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister prayed to the Almighty that, from today onwards, the people displaced by the unprecedented crisis in Manipur would finally be able to go back to their homes.
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Lauding the courage of women of Manipur, Yumnam Khemchand Singh stated that in different phases of the history of Manipur, the women of Manipur have played crucial roles in Manipur’s economy and political issues of Manipur. A widow can nurture and mend their child to become a successful person even by selling vegetables and engaging in handloom works. He asserted that we are their sons and daughters.
Also speaking on the occasion, woman legislator Sagolshem Kebi Devi stated that being a woman she has always been participating in the celebration every year. “Every woman should be well aware of the government schemes as well as the rights of women enshrined in the Constitution to protect themselves from discrimination and injustice in the society”, she said. In this regard, she urged that more women should actively participate in such programmes.
While delivering his presidential speech, Manipur Chief Secretary Dr. Puneet Kumar Goel expressed that this day is being celebrated to recognise the priceless contribution of women across the society. In Manipur, women have been the enduring pillars of the society, he added.
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An audio-visual presentation on the Mission Shakti was presented during the programme. The mission focuses on ensuring women’s safety, security, and economic empowerment.
During the celebration, the Chief Minister felicitated Nameirakpam Kunjarani Devi, weight lifter and Padmashree Awardee and  Mangka Mayanglambam, renowned Manipuri folk singer.
The celebration organised by the Department of Social Welfare, Government of Manipur was attended by Home Minister, Govindas Konthoujam, Tourism Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh, MLAs, administrative secretaries and officials of the Social Welfare department among others.