Imphal: Chief Minister of Manipur Yumnam Khemchand Singh attended a Special Interactive Session with Post-Matric Scholarship (ST) beneficiaries today in a programme organised by the Department of Tribal Affairs and Hills under Janjatiya Garima Utsav 2026 during the “Birsa Lives in New Bharat” Week at Hotel Imphal.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister highlighted that the Post-Matric Scholarship scheme aims to promote equality and uplift all communities. He said that the programme honours the contributions of Birsa Munda, a tribal leader, towards the welfare and empowerment of tribal society in the country.
The Chief Minister expressed concern over reports that some students had not received their scholarship payments for the last four months. He informed that the funds had already been released and that delays in some cases were due to issues related to Aadhaar and bank account linkage. He directed the concerned officials to resolve such issues at the earliest so that students receive their benefits without delay.
The Chief Minister further said that education plays a crucial role in shaping the future of young people. He added that the Government remains committed to addressing genuine difficulties faced by students and ensuring that welfare schemes reach the intended beneficiaries.
The Chief Minister emphasised that Manipur can progress only when all 36 communities living in the hills and valley develop together. He stressed the need for inclusive and balanced development across the State and said that the progress of every community is essential for the overall development of Manipur.
Highlighting the importance of peace, Yumnam Khemchand said that development can take place only in a peaceful and conducive environment. He noted that students and daily wage earners are among those most affected during periods of unrest. Emphasising that peace through dialogue is the only solution, he appealed to students to contribute towards strengthening harmony and understanding among different communities.
Speaking on the occasion, via video conferencing, Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen said that the programme highlighted the importance of education in empowering tribal youth and shaping a better future. She appreciated the presence of the Chief Minister and stated that bringing students and the Government onto one platform for interaction and dialogue made the event meaningful. She said that the Post-Matric Scholarship scheme is not merely financial assistance but an important support system that enables students to continue their education and pursue their aspirations.
The Deputy Chief Minister said that observing the programme during the “Birsa Lives in New Bharat” Week added greater significance to the event. She stated that the life and ideals of Birsa Munda continue to inspire courage, self-respect, dignity and dedication to society. Encouraging students to work hard and pursue their studies with sincerity, she urged them to use education not only for personal growth but also as a tool for the development of their villages and communities. She added that the Government of Manipur remains committed to supporting students in their educational journey.
During the interactive session, students engaged with the Chief Minister and raised questions regarding challenges related to the timely disbursal of scholarships, measures being taken by the Government to improve the implementation of scholarship schemes and initiatives to enhance stipend support. Students from Churachandpur and Kangpokpi districts also participated in the interaction via video conferencing and shared their concerns and challenges. Responding to the queries, the Chief Minister informed them that the concerns raised by the students would be looked into and discussed by the Government and that necessary steps would be taken to address them.
The programme was attended by Additional Chief Secretary (Tribal Affairs & Hills) Vivek Kumar Dewangan, Director of Tribal Affairs & Hills/TRI Rangnamei Rang Peter, officials of the Department of Tribal Affairs and Hills, scholarship beneficiaries, students and invited guests among others.
