* SUMMARY LIST OF GOVERNOR'S ADDRESS  

Address by His Excellency, the Governor of Manipur, General K. V. Krishna Rao (Retd.) to the Manipur Legislative Assembly on 1.3.1989.

Hon’ble Speaker and Distinguished Members of the House,

I am happy to welcome you to the first session of the Fourth Legislative Assembly in 1989.

Last year, while addressing this august House, I had touched upon the need for each one of us to contribute our mite in the country’s endeavour to fulfill the noble goals enshrined in the Constitution. I am indeed happy to note that during the last one year, my Government has taken significant and decisive steps in achieving the objective.

LAW AND ORDER

There were four major incidents of extremist activities leading to loss of lives of 2 army officers, one AR jawan, 15 CRPF personnel, one police officer and 2 civilians and substantial amount of cash. The law and order situation otherwise remained under control during the year under review. The Security Forces continued to render valuable assistance to the State Government to contain insurgency in the State.

The number of cases registered under preventive sections of law are increasing over the years showing greater efforts by the police machinery. State Police is being effectively used in counter-insurgency operations. Steps have been initiated to improve investigation and prosecution of cases involving extremists. 85 extremists belonging to various Underground organizations have been arrested and arms and ammunition captured. Further, as many as 51 members of various extremist organisations surrendered to the Government during the year under review. State police has seized substantial quantities of drugs and arrested a number of persons responsible for such activities. Special attention has been paid to the welfare and training needs of police personnel. The Manipur Fire Service handled 180 fire incidents out of 184 recorded during the calendar year 1988.

Construction of the Sajiwa Jail near Imphal and 4 District Jails at Chandel, Churachandpur, Senapati and Ukhrul is likely to be completed soon. It shall now be possible to deal more effectively with the problems of overcrowding, jailbreaks etc. Amongst the inmates of the central jail at Imphal, there are drug addicts and lunatics who have been provided with medical treatment. Vocational training is given to the long term convicts so as to enable them to amalgamate into the society with ease when they are released.

My Government has pursued an active policy of rehabilitation of surrendered extremists. In some cases, it has been possible to provide them with Government employment. Self-employment is also encouraged with necessary assistance. A peace camp to receive surrendered extremists and look after them till their rehabilitation has been revived.

My Government shares the anguish of families from which young boys and girls have gone to the Underground. All right thinking persons in the State must come forward and help in the task of persuading the misguided youth to give up their violent ways and join the national mainstream. My Government is fully prepared to hold negotiations with the extremist groups within the framework of the Constitution of India and take positive steps to rehabilitate those who return to normal life.

DEPARTMENT OF PERSONNEL

My Government has continued its efforts towards restricting ad-hoc/irregular appointments with utmost seriousness. Filling up of vacancies in regular manner has been facilitated by speedy finalisation of a large number of recruitment rules. A State Grievances Committee for service related grievances of Government employees has been set up and it has finalized 75% of the cases referred to it. Direct recruitment of six MCS officers and eleven MPS officers as also promotion of fifteen MPS officers has been completed.

VIGILANCE

During the year under report, the post of Vigilance Commissioner was filled up.

348 complaints were received during the calendar year 1988, which opened with a carry over of 673 cases. 206 complaints were disposed of during the year. In 12 cases, departmental action was recommended and in 5 cases termination or dismissal from service was recommended. Commission also recommended blacklisting of two local daily newspapers. In 12 cases, departmental action for minor penalty was recommended. 8 officials of the Government were arrested during the year.

The annual report of the State Vigilance Commission for the year 1987 has been finalized and action taken to cause it to be placed before the House.

LAW AND LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS

During the year under report, works relating to the Assam Sales Tax (Manipur Fourth amendment) Act, 1988, the Manipur Town and Country Planning (Third Amendment) Act, 1988, the Salaries and Allowances of Members of Legislative Assembly (Manipur) (Seventh Amendment) Act, 1988 and three Appropriation Acts were completed. To bring administration of justice within the easy reach of the people and to facilitate quick disposal of cases, new courts and new court buildings have been made available with the money awarded by the Eighth Finance Commission. A court of subordinate judge is expected to be established soon.

My Government, while impressing upon the Government of India, the need for setting up of a separate High Court within the State, has also been making arrangements to provide basic infrastructural facilities for a permanent bench of the Gauhati High Court at Imphal.

To fulfill the constitutional mandate under Article 39-A of our Constitution, my Government has been extending all possible assistance to litigants by way of free legal aid and advice. 92 litigants have so far been assisted under the scheme.

In a “Lok Adalat” organized at Imphal, as many as 110 cases could be disposed of. The cases included civil, criminal, matrimonial and motor accident claims. In another Lok Adalat held at Thoubal, 180 cases were settled and their final disposal by Law Courts is expected soon. It is also proposed to hold a Lok Adalat at Churachandpur soon.

An intensive revision of electoral rolls in all assembly constituencies of the State was carried out. Further, consequent upon the recent Central legislation lowering the voting age from 21 years to 18, a special revision of electoral rolls is under way.

FINANCE

During the year, the financial position of the State continued to be stable. There was no occasion when the State had to run into overdrafts, in spite of the financial burden imposed by revision of pay-scales of Government employees, grant of UGC scales to college lecturers, etc. Revenue collections from both tax and non-tax sources improved. My Government has also accorded high priority to reduction in wasteful expenditure.

My Government appointed the Third Manipur Pay Commission, with Shri Maheshwar Prasad as its Chairman, to look into the entire question of pay revision within the resources available to the State.

The Ninth Finance Commission which visited Manipur recently held useful discussions with the State Government. The State Government highlighted the need for treating the State on a different footing as compared to other States in the matter of working out the norms. The need for higher outlays under sectors like Special Problems and Upgradation Grants was strongly emphasized.

DISTRICT AND REVENUE ADMINISTRATION

Collection from land revenue and other dues has shown an increasing trend and the targets fixed for the year are likely to be substantially exceeded. Resurvey operations aimed at settlement of land revenue and updating of record of rights have commenced in the Valley Districts. Survey operations with similar objective have also started in the Hill areas.

The annual target of collection of excise duties has already been achieved by December 1988. Against the target of Rs. 150 lacs, it is now expected that Rs. 197 lacs would be collected during the year.

PLANNING DEPARTMENT

The planning Department of the State Government plays a unique role in the matter of identification of plan priorities, preparation of detailed plans and monitoring of the actual implementation of plan schemes. Members will be happy to note that during the current year, plan allocation of Rs.122.50 crores will be utilized in full. Plan outlay for the next year has been fixed at Rs. 142 crores.

The exercise for preparation of the Draft VIII Plan has already begun. Experts from the Manipur University have been assigned the task of preparing perspective papers on some important sectors.

The National Institute of Rural Development, North Eastern Centre, Guwahati has been engaged to take up a pilot project for preparation of a model District plan. It is hoped that such an exercise, when extended to other Districts, will enable the Government to prepare a State plan which will truly reflect the needs and aspiration of the common man. Further, it is proposed to place some ‘united funds’ at the disposal of the District Planning and Development Council during the next year.

RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND PANCHAYATI RAJ

Under Integrated Rural Development Programme, 2758 families have been assisted up to December last against a target of 5525. Under National Rural Employment Programme and Rural Landless Employment Guarantee Programme, nearly 5.5 lacs mandays have been generated up to the end of December against a target of 6.8 lacs mandays. Under these two schemes, food grains have been distributed to the workers as part of their wage component.

The Panchayati Raj institutions have been given special attention by the Government. Training programmes for official and non-official functionaries, study tours outside the State, Panchayati Raj sammelans, workshops and seminars were organized during the year. 53 prizes have been awarded to Gram Panchayats at Block and State levels. 56 panchayat ghars and 2 nyaya panchayat ghars are under construction with 50% assistance from the Government. At the State level, a Panchayati Raj Training Institute is nearing completion.

Under the programme for women and children, administrative grants to mahila mandals and balwadi centres will be given. For popularisation of improved and smokeless chullahs, the households have already been identified. Similarly, for the special component plan, 3 scheduled caste villages in 3 Blocks have been identified. During the year the Children’s Day, Quami Ekta Week, National Integration Day, Minorities Day, Women’s Day and Nupilal Day were celebrated.

DEVELOPMENT OF TRIBALS AND BACKWARD CLASSES

The welfare and development of Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Castes have always been accorded a very high priority by my Government. Funds have been made available by the Government of India for the Tribal sub-Plan apart from allocation from the State Plan itself.

Under the Tribal Sub-Plan, Rs. 2.83 crores has been provided during the current year. Schemes for providing water supply to 46 tribal villages have been taken up. Schemes aimed at generating income for the tribal families under agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, fisheries and cottage industries are being implemented. Outlays have also been provided for betterment of facilities under education, medical and public health housing and communication sectors and for providing storage and marketing facilities in remote areas. It has also been our endeavour to provide for special schemes for the vulnerable groups such as women, children and primitive tribes.

Out of the State’s Plan outlay, Rs. 1.23 crores has been earmarked for various programmes under education, health and housing as also schemes aimed at economic development of the tribals and backward classes. The Manipur Tribal Development Corporation is being assisted by share capital contribution and grant-in-aid of Rs. 13 lacs.

AGRICULTURE AND HORTICULTURE

The State has made impressive strides in the field of agriculture. The production of rice is expected to be 4,15,000 tonnes against a target of 4,00,000 tonnes. It is heartening to note that 22,500 hectares have been brought under double cropping and 4,500 hectares under triple cropping.

However, even today a large portion of our agricultural land is not being put to optimal use – with only one crop being raised in a year. It then goes without saying that the economy of the State can be given a big boost if multiple cropping is taken up in these areas. My Government is fully aware of the magnitude of the problem and no effort shall be spared to provide adequate irrigation facilities to such areas.

In an effort to maximise the production of rice, pulses, oilseeds, sugarcane and maize, a multipronged strategy has been adopted with emphasis on introduction of high yielding varieties of seeds, greater and balanced use of fertilizers and introduction of appropriate technology for the Jhum areas. Research activities have also been intensified in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research with emphasis on sugarcane and maize crops to cater to the needs of sugar mil and glucose factory, now at various stages of establishment. 

The consumption of fertilizer in the State has increased steadily from 18 kg. per hectare at the end of fifth plan to 56 kg. per hectare. In the Valley, it is now as high as 90 kg. per hectare. The State is now self sufficient in good quality paddy seeds. Coverage under high yielding varieties of seeds in the Valley is as high as 70%.

Production of good quality seeds at the foundation seed farm at Kharungpat and pulses and oilseeds farm at Gamphazol has started during the year. The construction of a 1000 tonnes capacity cold storage at Imphal is expected to be completed during the year. Under the new agricultural policy of the State “Go to the Village” arrangements to make all the requirements of the farmers available at their doorsteps have been attempted. The steps include formation of production committees at State, District, Block and Village levels.

In the field of horticulture, the State has favourable climate and soil conditions to support many fruits, vegetables and other economically important crops. To meet the demand of good quality seedlings, large number of progeny orchards are being maintained and production of good quality seedlings ensured. During this year 17 lacs seedlings of various tropical, sub-tropical and temperate fruit plants are expected to be raised against an achievement of 10 lacs seedlings during 1987-88. A large number of extension programmes are taken up to ensure that the farmers are fully informed about the facilities available to them. It is expected that 1605 hectares of area would be covered under demonstration farms and 500 trainees benefited under training programmes during the year. The marketing of horticultural produces, especially from far-flung areas, is being specially attended to. The fruit processing factory run by the department is expected to produce 250 MT of processed fruits by the end of the year. 

In the area of soil conservation, 315 jhumia families are expected to be resettled by converting 630 hectares of jhum land into terraced fields.

Plantation crops, which were taken up on a limited and experimental basis, have shown encouraging results. Consequently, number of private entrepreneurs have now shown their keenness in taking up commercial plantation in the State. My Government is fully aware that apart from generating sufficient employment and ensuring economic development, such measures will also go a long way in making a better use of our fallow lands, especially in areas where jhooming practices are intensive.

FOOD AND CIVIL SUPPLIES

There are 1592 fair price shops running in the State. During the year 23,004 MT of rice, 6,485 MT of sugar and 439 tonnes of GCI sheets were supplied to the public till Dec, 1988. Storage capacity in the State has been increased by 2000 MT during the year, by construction of additional capacity at Sangaiprou, Senapati and Ukhrul. In the area of price control, various statutory orders issued under the Essential Commodities Act are being enforced through the agency of District Administration. A State Consumer Protection Council has been set up under the relevant law and rules framed there under. Action is being taken to set up District Forums and appellate body at the State level.

The State Government has also taken steps to build up a buffer stock of 6000 MT of rice before the onset of the monsoons. 

VETERINARY AND ANIMAL HUSBANDRY SERVICES

The improvement in production of milk, meat and eggs is important not only for the better nourishment of the people but also for their socio-economic development. The cattle population, mostly low milk producing types, are to be improved by cross breeding. Artificial insemination programme is being taken up on a large scale through various centres and sub-centres. Three new sub-centres have been opened during this year. Milk production in the State has gone up to 80,000 tonnes by December 1988 against a target of 85,100 tonnes for the year. A frozen semen bank is expected to be commissioned with one bull centre and 6 semen depots. Similarly, 3 liquid nitrogen plants are being commissioned shortly with assistance from Government of India.

The poultry and piggery development programmes are also being taken up vigorously. About 1,50,000 chicks are expected to be made available to the farmers from Government farms. The production target of 55.7 million eggs is likely to be achieved during the year.

One Central Pig Breeding Centre and 3 District Farms are being opened shortly. A pilot project of mithun rearing has already been started at Tinkhai Khullen.

Feed and fodder of the right type and composition is of utmost importance especially in the case of improved varieties. My Government has been paying attention to this aspect and the ‘Grow More Fodder’ campaign has been launched. 15 M.T. of seedlings of fodder plants were made available from the Government fodder farms during the year.

FISHERIES

My Government has been placing emphasis on the need to improve production of fish in the State. During the year, the targeted production of 7,000 tonnes of fish and 30 million fish seeds are expected to be achieved. Under the programme of Hypophysation the Government has extended technical and material help in induced breeding to 60 private farmers. 3 Fish Farmers Development Agencies are functioning at Imphal, Bishnupur and Churachandpur for extending financial and technical assistance to fish farmers. The FFDAs have imparted training to 1242 fish farmers till December 1988.

My Government has also been paying attention to the introduction of Group Accident Insurance Scheme for fishermen. 372 fish farmers have been insured so far and 300 more are likely to be covered during the year.

FOREST AND SOIL CONSERVATION

Members will agree with me that there is an urgent need to revive, protect and conserve our forest wealth. The maintenance of a balanced eco-system has today become an issue of international concern as the very existence of mankind is threatened and is at stake. In a state like Manipur with its economy substantially dependent on the natural factors, this has become an imperative need.

My Government, fully realizing this obligation, has taken up 24 development schemes under forestry sector with an outlay of Rs. 371 lacs, and 3 schemes with an outlay of Rs. 88 lacs, for soil conservation. Plantation of industrially and commercially important species has been taken up and 1950 hectares have already been covered and advance work for 2760 hectares completed for the next planting season.

The concept of social forestry has been successfully implemented and trees, both fast growing and fruit bearing, have been planted in an area of 3050 hectares and advance work in an area of 4200 hectares is nearing completion.

Rubber plantation in an area of 50 hectares has been completed and rubber-processing unit has started functioning. Tapping of rubber from 5000 trees has also commenced during the year.

Catchment areas of major rivers have separately been taken up for afforestation works and 1900 hectares have already been afforested.

It gives me pleasure to note that adequate attention has been paid to the conservation of wild life. The Keibul Lamjao National Park has been developed by digging cattle proof trenches and constructing 10 Kms. of ring bund around the park. Other major schemes being implemented include declaration of Shiroy hill as National Park, captive breeding of rare species, etc. The resettlement of jhumias has been emphasized and 75 families have been taken up for resettlement in 225 hectares of land.

Members will be happy to note that my Government has imposed a ban on movement of timber outside the State. Such a measure has been taken in the interest of environment in spite of the fact that there is a substantial loss of revenue to the State.

IRRIGATION AND FLOOD CONTROL

Construction of major and medium irrigation projects in the State is of recent origin. The Loktak Lift Irrigation Project was taken up in 1973-74. Three multipurpose projects – Singda, Thoubal and Khuga were taken up shortly thereafter. Work on a dam on Khoupum river and barrages on Imphal and Sekmai rivers was also started. On completion, these 7 projects will cover a total area of 63,750 hectares with an annual irrigation potential of 1, 01,440 hectares together with water supply and power components of 19 m.g.d. and 9 MW respectively. A medium irrigation project on Iril River at Dolaithabi, covering an area of 5,500 hectares and with annual irrigation benefit of 7,900 hectares in Senapati and Imphal Districts, is being taken up in 1989-90. Annual irrigation potential to the extent of 56,700 hectares has been created up to the end of 1987-88 and target for 1988-89 is 2,700 hectares. Out of the 7 ongoing projects, the Khoupum Dam has already been completed. Loktak Lift Irrigation, Imphal Barrage and Sekmai Barrage Projects are targeted for completion by March, 1989. The barrage component of Thoubal Multipurpose Project will be completed in all respects by March, 1989, giving partial irrigation benefit to 4,000 hectares. The Singda Project is targeted for completion by March, 1990.

During the year, it is expected to cover 1,500 hectares of land under minor irrigation schemes with a total outlay of Rs. 187 lakhs. An area of 655 hectares has already been covered by the end of December, 1988

Besides executing essential flood control measures like construction of new embankments, strengthening of existing ones, construction and improvement of drainage channels, the State IFC Department has taken up 2 flood control projects for Merakhong and Wangjing rivers at a total cost of Rs. 9.34 crores. Flood Control Projects on other rivers are also being taken up in phases. The Waishel basin drainage project is being taken up during the year. An outlay of Rs. 82.53 lakhs has been provided during the current year. The area covered by flood control up to 1987-88 is 20,122 hectares and target for 1988-89 is 1,500 hectares.

The urgent need for de-weeding and de-siltation of the Loktak Lake to prevent inundation of the adjacent areas has been recognised and a comprehensive paper submitted to the Ninth Finance Commission for assistance.

TRANSPORT 

The Transport Department will achieve its revenue target in full. Detection of violations under the Motor Vehicles Act and Rules has increased to 3022 cases during April to December, 1988 as compared to 1858 cases in the corresponding period of last year. The realization of dues for these violations was Rs. 5.30 lakhs as against Rs. 1.58 lakhs last year. Adoption of M.V. Act, 1988 and Rules thereunder is under consideration of my Government.

The number of vehicles in the State has doubled in the last 3 years. To ease the congestion, the Department plans to introduce a pilot city bus service in Imphal which can form the basis of greater public transport coverage in urban centres in the State.

The MSRTC had another difficult year aggravated by the fact that the Corporation did not qualify for Central assistance under the new guidelines. Economy measures, improvement in fleet-staff ratio, etc. have enabled the Corporation to continue to provide service on routes not covered by the private sector.

PUBLIC WORKS

Targets of construction of 107 kms. of State highways, 89 kms. of District roads and 192 kms of inter-village roads will be achieved in the current year. The Government is conscious of the need to provide better roads in the State. The existing roads are being strengthened and widened to cope with increased traffic. 9 major bridges, 68 minor bridges and culverts and 20 suspension bridges will also be completed during the year at a cost of Rs. 14.50 crores. 38 public administration buildings and as many residential buildings at a total cost of Rs. 3.70 crores will also be completed. Buildings for Medical, Revenue, Judicial and Jail Departments, with assistance from the 8th Finance Commission are making good progress.

EDUCATION

Provision of adequate educational facilities to the children of the State continues to receive due attention of my Government.

With assistance from the 8th Finance Commission, we expect to provide two pucca rooms each to over 1300 primary schools in the State in the current year. Under “Operation Black Board”, Schools in 8 selected Blocks are being provided with a large variety of reading and learning materials. Efforts are on to identify schools in each District which will eventually serve as model schools. Steps are also being taken to reduce the types of schools presently existing in the State and to have only Primary, Junior High schools, High Schools and Higher Secondary Schools.

Under the National Policy on Education, UGC scales have been sanctioned by the State Government. The State Council of Educational Research and Training has been set up to attend to work relating to academic planning, curriculum development and teachers’ training. Steps have been taken to ensure availability of Manipuri text books of approved quality.

Rules have been framed for conducting a joint entrance examination for admission to engineering colleges. A scheme for imparting specialized training to meritorious candidates desirous of appearing in the Civil Service Examination has already been drawn up. In the field of adult education, new centres are being opened in areas where there are a large number of adult illiterates. A Centre of Manipuri Studies has been set up in the University during the year under review.

In the field of technical education, 69 students were selected for admission in different engineering colleges of the country besides training 120 students at the Government Polytechnic. Construction has been taken up for a Women’s Polytechnic, multi-storeyed boy’s hostel and other buildings.

Rules relating to juvenile justice have now been notified in the State. This has paved the way for establishment of observation homes, remand homes and special homes for juvenile delinquents and other categories of disturbed and deprived children.

Special emphasis has been laid on conservation and upkeep of buildings and monuments of historical importance. Cultural troupe of the State performed in various parts of the country.

SPORTS AND YOUTH AFFAIRS

The importance of sports and games needs no emphasis. 262 schools have been provided with additional staff for implementation of compulsory physical education programmes. 12 officials were deputed to participate in the Bharatiyam programme at the national level and with their help a Bharatiyam programme at the State level was organized. 300 participants took part in the National Physical Fitness Festival. 31 gold medals in individual and team events, which includes 5 gold medals from international championships, were awarded to players from the State. 25 boys and girls of the State were selected at the national level sports talent contest for admission in schools adopted by Sports Authority of India.

During the year under report, 6 anti-drug campaigns, 6 afforestation programmes, 8 youth leadership training courses, 10 youth exchange programmes, 8 district level youth integration camps and 30 career guidance conferences were organized. A 16-member mountaineering team sponsored by the Government has recently scaled Mount Koktang in Sikkim.

The construction of Khuman Lampak Sports complex and the Mini Stadia at Ukhrul, Senapati, Tamenglong, Thoubal and Chandel is making good progress. 60 playfields all over the State were improved during the year. A sum of Rs. 150 lacs has been earmarked for the development of Khuman Lampak Sports Complex during 1989-90.

It is heartening to note that a number of young boys and girls of the State have exhibited commendable performances in the field of Sports and Games, which is obvious from their performance and achievements, both at the national and international levels. Special mention may here be made of Shri Thoiba Singh, Shri Nilkamal Singh and Shri Tiken Singh who continued to represent the country with distinction in various international hockey competitions. The emphasis on sports and games, I am sure, will have a positive impact on the minds of our youngsters to channelise their energies towards constructive activities. With these in mind, my Government is committed to provide adequate sports facilities all over the State.

HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE 

The need to provide adequate health and medical facilities requires no emphasis. Against a target of 13 Primary Health Centres to be established during the year, 4 Centres have already been opened. Similarly, 12 Sub-Centres have also been set up in various parts of the State and one Community Health Centre opened at Nungba. The Sub-Centres which have been upgraded into Primary Health Centres are being equipped to make them fully functional. My Government is also taking up implementation of a large number of programmes aimed at eradication of communicable diseases like leprosy and tuberculosis. Under the National Programme for Control of Blindness, the Government organized 13 eye camps wherein 1775 patients were treated. The Mobile Ophthalmic Unit was also fully utilized during the year. Under Immunization Programme, the achievements up to December, 1988 were 92% and 87% of the proportionate targets for DPT and Polio respectively and 73% of the proportionate target in the case of TT for pregnant women. The achievement in the case of BCG and Measles were 166% and 79% of the proportionate targets respectively.

In the field of family welfare, the achievement up to the end of December, 1988 stands at 2694 cases of sterilization and 5157 cases of IUD insertions, which amount to 59% and 113% of the proportionate targets. 25.32% of eligible couples as on 31.3.88 have been protected through various methods of family welfare programmes.

PUBLIC HEALTH ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT

The Porompat Water Supply Scheme was commissioned last month to augment water supply to Imphal. The Canchipur Water Supply Augmentation Scheme will be taken up shortly.

In rural sector, out of 1749 problem villages, 1444 villages had been covered by March, 1988 and 220 villages are targeted during the current year. The decade target of covering all problem villages by 1991 is within reach.

Projects for drainage and sanitation for Greater Imphal area are under technical scrutiny by the Central Ministry. Drainage work in seriously affected areas is being taken up during the current year. Construction of individual latrines at Nambol, Bishnupur and Thoubal Municipalities is being taken up with 50% subsidy from the Central Government. For rural sanitation, the target for the current year is 1800 units, of which 621 units have been completed up to December, 1988.

POWER

Although sufficient power is generated within Manipur, it has not been possible to extend the benefit to all consumers due to inadequacies in our transmission and sub-transmission systems. I am happy to mention that there is now an all-out effort aimed at making good this shortfall. Through measures such as providing better transmission systems and prevention of theft of electrical energy, it is expected to bring down the transmission and distribution losses to 22% by the year-end. Members will be happy to note that Manipur was awarded the first prize amongst the States for achieving reduction in transmission and distribution losses in the year 1987-88 by the Government of India. It is expected that gross revenue amounting to over Rs. 11 crores will be collected during the year.

There has been good progress in the construction of ongoing projects. The Gelnel Hydel Project is expected to be completed by the end of the year. New Hydel Projects at Khuga, Kazerilok and Tuipaki with a total capacity of 3.4 MW have also been taken up.

My Government accords high priority to rural electrification. Out of the 1949 villages in the State as per the 1971 Census, 50% had already been electrified. The current year’s target of electrification of 118 villages has already been achieved. During this year 50 more villages are likely to be electrified and the target of the next year has been fixed at 220 villages. These villages are mostly in the hill areas of the State. I am hopeful that the Government will be in a position to provide electricity to all villages in the near future.

One 33/11 KV sub-station has been commissioned during the year. Construction of 133/33 KV sub-station at Ningthoukhong and 33/11 KV sub-stations at 5 new locations, augmentation of 11 existing sub-stations, installation of step-up sub-stations at District and Sub-Divisional headquarters, are in good progress.

INDUSTRIES

My Government has accorded high priority to setting up industries in the State. Over 700 new SSI units providing employment to 3,000 people have been established during the year. Work has already started on the Vanaspati Ghee Plant in the Joint Sector with an investment of Rs. 6 crores. The Manipur State Drug and Pharmaceutical Ltd. has also started construction of its formulation unit, with an investment of Rs. 3 crores. The two units are expected to be commissioned by next year.

The Manipur Industrial Development Corporation (MANIDCO) sanctioned loans worth Rs. 2.85 crores till Jan. ’89. Total sanctions by the end of the year will exceed Rs. 6 crores. The MANIDCO has also started supplying raw materials to Small Scale Units.

The Manipur Electronics Development Corporation is expected to more than double its production of Black & White and Colour TV sets in the current year. Buildings for the Centre for Electronics Design and Technology are nearing completion. Diploma courses in electronics are also being started from the academic session.

The North Eastern Industrial and Technical Consultancy Organisation which had been given the job of setting up the Hundung Cement Plant on a turn-key basis by the NEC are likely to finish the commissioning of the plant within a few months. The plant will, thereafter, be handed over to the State Government. The extension centre of the Central Institute of Plastics Engineering and Technology is now under construction.

To give a boost to the setting up of new industries, the Government of Manipur will be announcing a new Industrial Policy soon. The highlights of this policy shall be provision of land at subsidized rates, State capital investment subsidy, 100 percent State transport subsidy, subsidy for power and bank interests, sales tax holiday for five years, reimbursement of stamp duty and registration fees, etc. Besides these, the procedure for obtaining registration and various clearances from the Government are also proposed to be simplified.

With the opening of 4 new mulberry farms, extension of area under mulberry and ‘Eri’ and other extension measures, production of 18 lacs oak tasar cocoons, 1.52 lacs kg. of mulberry cocoons and 1.27 lacs kg. of ‘Eri’ cocoons have been achieved.

CO-OPERATION

My Government has paid special emphasis on strengthening of the co-operation movement in the State. An amount of Rs. 286.67 lacs was disbursed as short term credit during the kharif season to the farmers. Similarly, a sum of Rs. 234 lacs has been sanctioned for rabi season. The Manipur State Co-operative Bank has recovered Rs. 282.66 lacs against the demand of Rs. 355 lacs.

5 handloom worksheds of 25 loom capacity have been established during the year and action has been initiated to strengthen the share capital base of 86 societies through assistance from National Co-operative Development Corporation. The NCDC has also been moved to extend assistance for the second Integrated Co-operative Development Project at Thoubal at an estimated cost of Rs. 310 lacs.

3 new branches of the Manipur State Consumers Co-operative Federation were opened. 10 agro service centres were established during the year under 10 societies by equipping each of them with one tractor, 3 power tillers and 4 pump sets.

TOURISM & PUBLICITY

The Khongjom Tourist Home has been inaugurated. Tourist Homes at Shiroi and Churachandpur will be completed during this year. Work has also started on Cafeterias at Mao, Kangpokpi and Litan. There has been steady increase in the number of domestic tourists visiting Manipur and till the 30th October, 1988, 68,872 domestic tourists had visited Manipur, an increase of about 50% over the preceding year. However there is an urgent need to open the State to foreign tourists, at least in the Valley areas. Hotel Imphal Ashok has been fully equipped to cater to the needs of tourists visiting the State.

More than 400 community viewing sets were distributed to various clubs and associations in an attempt to take the Television to the masses. Large number of press statements and feature articles were released to give wide publicity to the Government’s policies and programmes, besides organizing press tours, films and drama shows to generate awareness about Manipur and its rich cultural heritage. In order to make the Government responsive to public opinion, press cuttings were circulated to concerned departments and brought to their notice for taking necessary action.

MUNICIPAL ADMINISTRATION, HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT

Financial assistance has been extended to municipalities and other local bodies to meet their maintenance as well as developmental expenditure. A Revised Draft Master Plan for the Greater Imphal Area, with horizon as 2011 AD has been prepared with the help of consultants and is under consideration. Plans have also been prepared for components like traffic and transportation, water supply, drainage, sewerage, etc. and are being studied. A conceptual approach plan for setting up a new Capital Complex at Lamphelpat is also ready.

Planning and Development Authority is taking up construction of markets, bus-stand, etc. at Lamlai and Bishnupur. The implementation of the Integrated Development of Small and Medium Towns Programme is nearing completion at Jiribam and Kakching.

The Authority is implementing slum improvement schemes at a total cost of Rs. 10 lacs. 501 houses will be provided to families belonging to economically weaker sections and low income group in 3 Districts at a total cost of Rs. 80 lacs. A commercial complex at Chingamacha is nearing completion. The Government is aware of the need to provide better housing facilities and is contemplating the setting up of a Housing Board.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

During the year, 3 Science Centres were opened at Churachandpur, Chandel and Thoubal. 16 schools/community centres will be opened in Manipur by the end of the year. A portable planetarium is being set up as also a tissue culture laboratory and a food testing laboratory. The remote sensing cell of the department is now fully functional. The State Computer Centre has computerized the details of a household survey conducted recently and imparted training to over 200 persons in the use of computer.

To encourage use of non-conventional sources of energy, 50 biogas plants are being constructed. Besides these, 100 numbers of solar photo voltaic street lighting systems will be installed. Two wind generators have been commissioned, and 3 more are being installed. Improved variety of Chulhas is being distributed to over 4,000 families.

An Environment Protection Council has been set up. The State Pollution Control Board is also being set up shortly. Workshops and seminars to popularize the concept of conservation of environment were held. An Ecology Park at Churachandpur and an environment monitoring laboratory are being set up.

DEPARTMENT OF LABOUR, EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING

23,521 job seekers including 6,539 females registered their names in the employment exchanges in the State till November last year. The number of registrants is 2, 51,936 including 58,217 women. Names of 20,235 persons were sponsored against 2,710 notified vacancies and 1,519 persons got placement.

There are six industrial training institutes in the State imparting training in 17 engineering and non-engineering trades. Efforts are on to modernize equipments and introduce new trades and audio-visual aids for training.

Unemployment is one of the most serious problems facing the country. My Government has accorded a high priority to this while formulating all its socio-economic and development programmes. It is, with this objective in mind that activities like plantation, industrial development, creation of agricultural potential and implementation of poverty alleviation programmes are taken up. I am confident that my Government will be able to find a meaningful solution to this problem in the near future.

MANIPUR PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION

During the year, the Commission conducted competitive examinations for recruitment to Manipur Judicial Service and posts of Rangers. The commission also recommended candidates for recruitment to the post of Higher Secondary Lecturers, Budget Analysts, Junior Class I Medical Officers and Assistant Curator. The Commission also conducted 10 UPSC and 8 Staff Selection Commission examinations at Imphal Centre. 62 proposals for promotion and confirmation from various departments were received out of which 16 cases were disposed of. Similarly, 23 cases pertaining to extension of ad-hoc appointments were disposed of by the Commission. The Commission also examined 44 cases of recruitment rules out of which 24 cases were finalized.

WELFARE SCHEMES

Under the Chief Minister’s welfare programme, six new welfare schemes have been introduced, from 31st March 1988, for the benefit of families living below the poverty line. Under the Free Medical Scheme free in-patient treatment is being provided to all cases of hospitalization of families below the poverty line up to a period of 15 days. 745 patients have benefited under this scheme till Dec.88. Under the scheme of supply of uniforms to the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe girls, uniforms are being supplied to girls from families below the poverty line studying in Government schools in classes VIII to X. 1491 girls have been provided with such uniforms till Dec.88. Under the scheme of supply of note books to students, note books are being supplied to students from families below the poverty line studying in classes I to VII in Government schools. 1540 students have so far been covered. Under the Kutir Jyoti Scheme, families below poverty line in electrified villages are being given free electric connection up to one point. This has benefited 531 families till Dec.88. Under the scheme for supply of Minimum Monthly Ration, a minimum monthly ration of 20 kg. of rice, 2 kg. of sugar, 1 kg. of iodised salt, 1 kg. of edible oil and 2 litres of kerosene oil is proposed to be provided. 1, 33,690 ration cards have been prepared for this purpose. Under another scheme, stipend for inmates of Government schools for blind, deaf and dumb has been enhanced to Rs. 10 per head per day.

MISCELLANEOUS

During the current year, work relating to the 44th round of National Sample survey is being taken up. Work on bringing out brochures on consumer expenditure and calorie intake levels have been completed. Various publications like ‘Meteorological data of Manipur for the years 1972-1987’, “Manipur-Economic Progress in figures, 1987”, “Chandel District at a glance, 1987” and “Manipur at a glance, 1987” are released or being released within this year.

Various steps have been initiated for the welfare of the employees. Prompt attention to complaints from employees has been ensured by installation of one complaint box in the State Secretariat. The office timings have been changed so as to ensure more working hours and provide a lunch break to the employees. The 4th Saturday of each month has also been declared as holiday to enable the Government employees to attend to personal work or pursue leisure activities.

I am extremely happy to say that during the year under report my Government has been able to take positive steps in regulatory and developmental administration with the result thereof, the administration has been rendered more responsive to the needs of the people. The significant achievements of the Government have already been highlighted. I appeal to each one of you to fully and whole-heartedly participate in and support the cause of Nation building. The task of Nation building assumes an added significance in this year of Nehru Centenary. I am confident that with the devotion and sense of purpose of the administration and the co-operation that each one of you extend, this task will become so much easier.

During this session a large number of issues which will have far reaching implications for the State will come up for deliberations. I wish you all success in your deliberations.



JAI HIND