The Manipur government has announced a comprehensive plan to close all relief camps for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) by December 2025, signaling a significant step towards restoring normalcy in the state. This initiative, spearheaded by Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Singh, involves a three-phase rehabilitation program and financial assistance to help displaced families rebuild their lives.

The decision to close the approximately 350 relief camps comes after assessing the situation and determining that many people are now prepared to return to their homes. The number of displaced persons has decreased from an initial 62,000 to around 57,000, indicating that some have already started returning to their villages in districts like Churachandpur and Kangpokpi.

The rehabilitation program will be implemented in three phases, commencing in July 2025, with subsequent phases in October and December. This phased approach aims to ensure a smooth transition for the IDPs as they return to their native places.

Financial assistance is a crucial component of the rehabilitation plan. The government will provide ₹3.03 lakh to 7,000-8,000 families whose houses were destroyed in the violence, enabling them to rebuild their homes. This amount includes ₹1.3 lakh for initial support and ₹1.7 lakh for reconstruction. Additionally, around 7,000 people who fled their villages but whose houses were spared will also receive financial aid to help them restart their lives. The specific amount for this category is yet to be determined, but it is intended to help them repair their homes, which may have become dilapidated after two years of neglect.

Recognizing that some individuals may still be unable to return to their villages by December, the government is constructing 1,000 pre-fabricated houses to accommodate approximately 8,000 to 10,000 people. These houses will provide a temporary shelter for those who need more time to resettle, particularly those from areas such as Moreh, Kangpokpi, and Churachandpur.

The Manipur government is working closely with the central government and civil society organizations (CSOs) to ensure the successful resettlement of the IDPs. Chief Secretary Singh emphasized that efforts are underway to reopen all major highways, ensuring free and safe movement for the public. He expressed optimism that people will soon be able to travel without fear across the state.

Furthermore, security measures have been implemented in vulnerable areas, especially in agricultural zones. Farmers from both the Meitei and Kuki communities are now peacefully cultivating their fields and sharing water resources, indicating a positive shift in ground realities.

The government has appealed to all CSOs to maintain calm and support the rehabilitation efforts. The collaborative approach between the government, central authorities, and community organizations is crucial for restoring normalcy and fostering peace and harmony in Manipur.

This three-phase rehabilitation plan and the closure of relief camps by December 2025 represent a significant step towards helping displaced people rebuild their lives and reintegrate into their communities.