Imphal, August 29, 2025: Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Friday conducted a comprehensive review of the implementation of the Manipur State Rural Livelihoods Mission (MSRLM) at Raj Bhavan, with a focus on strengthening livelihood opportunities, empowering rural communities, and enhancing the effectiveness of programmes aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of vulnerable households across the state.
During the review meeting, officials presented updates on the progress of various initiatives being implemented under the Manipur State Rural Livelihoods Mission. The discussions primarily centred on the achievements and impact of Self-Help Groups (SHGs), the functioning of Rural Self Employment Training Institutes (RSETIs), and specialised livelihood training programmes designed for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) affected by the recent unrest in the state.
The Governor reviewed the performance of Self-Help Groups in promoting financial inclusion, women's empowerment, income generation, and community-led development. Officials highlighted how SHGs have enabled rural women to access credit, undertake small enterprises, strengthen savings habits, and improve household incomes through collective economic activities.
The review also covered the role of Rural Self Employment Training Institutes in providing skill development and entrepreneurship training to unemployed youth and rural residents. Officials informed the Governor about ongoing efforts to equip beneficiaries with market-oriented skills that would help them secure sustainable livelihoods and become self-reliant.
Particular attention was given to livelihood support programmes for internally displaced persons. Officials briefed the Governor on specialised training initiatives aimed at helping displaced families acquire new skills and income-generating opportunities to rebuild their lives. The programmes are intended to promote economic rehabilitation by enabling affected individuals to establish sustainable livelihoods despite the challenges arising from displacement.
During the meeting, Governor Bhalla emphasised the need to strengthen manpower and improve institutional capacity to ensure the effective implementation of livelihood programmes. He directed officials to expand outreach efforts so that the benefits of government schemes reach every eligible beneficiary, particularly those living in remote and underserved rural areas.
The Governor stressed that greater coordination among implementing agencies, local institutions, and community organisations would be essential for improving programme delivery. He also called for enhanced capacity-building initiatives for field functionaries and stakeholders to ensure efficient implementation and better monitoring of livelihood projects.
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Highlighting the importance of inclusive development, Bhalla said rural livelihood programmes should continue to focus on empowering women, supporting disadvantaged communities, and creating sustainable employment opportunities. He noted that effective grassroots interventions can play a significant role in reducing poverty, strengthening local economies, and improving the quality of life in rural Manipur.
The review meeting reaffirmed the state government's commitment to poverty alleviation and sustainable rural development through community participation and targeted support. Officials said the Manipur State Rural Livelihoods Mission remains a key initiative in promoting self-employment, financial inclusion, and skill development while ensuring that vulnerable sections of society, including internally displaced persons, receive the necessary assistance to achieve long-term economic stability and self-reliance.
