Guwahati: Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh on Friday said frequent bandhs and blockades across the state are causing an estimated daily loss of Rs 25-30 crore in tax revenue to the government.

Speaking at a Seva Sankalp Abhiyan programme at the Indian National Army Martyr’s Memorial Complex Hall in Bishnupur district, Singh said the disruptions had further affected the state’s economy, which was already impacted by the crisis that began in 2023.

The chief minister said the government was planning to launch a special financial assistance scheme for women street vendors ahead of the Ningol Chakouba festival in November. The initiative is intended to support women vendors in meeting their families’ day-to-day expenses.

Women who have not yet registered for the proposed assistance can do so through their respective legislators, Singh said.

Referring to the month-long Seva Sankalp Abhiyan, the chief minister said the programme is being observed nationwide to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 25 years in public service and to promote the principles of public service and good governance.

Singh said the prolonged crisis in Manipur had caused significant economic damage, including a substantial decline in government revenue.

“Frequent bandhs and blockades called in the state have resulted in a loss of around Rs 25 to Rs 30 crore per day in tax revenue to the state government,” he said.

The chief minister appealed to people and groups to resolve differences through dialogue and avoid forms of agitation that interfere with normal life and economic activity.

He also urged those advocating for the protection of Manipur to visit the hill areas themselves, rather than relying solely on statements made by others.

Singh said the prolonged crisis has particularly affected households dependent on daily wages.

Following discussions during the recently concluded eighth session of the Manipur Assembly, the state government has decided to provide Rs 10,000 each to around 3,00,050 families, he said.

According to the chief minister, the required budgetary allocation has already been made for implementing the financial assistance programme.