Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi/Imphal, Feb 23: Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday assured Manipur chief minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh of full support from the Centre to restore the state’s financial stability and revive its economy.

According to officials from the chief minister’s Office in Imphal, Sitharaman also pledged assistance for the rehabilitation of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) affected by the recent ethnic violence in the state.

During the meeting, the chief minister requested enhanced financial aid to help Manipur achieve inclusive growth and address pressing economic challenges. Describing the interaction as constructive, Khemchand Singh thanked the Finance Minister for her patient hearing and continued commitment to the state’s development.

The chief minister was accompanied by deputy chief ministers Losii Dikho of the Naga People's Front and Nemcha Kipgen of the Bharatiya Janata Party. Kipgen, who represents the tribal-dominated Kangpokpi district and belongs to the Kuki community, is Manipur’s first woman deputy chief minister.

This marks Khemchand Singh’s first visit to the national capital since taking oath as chief minister on February 4.

Earlier in the day, he met defence minister Rajnath Singh, who assured full cooperation from the Defence Ministry in supporting the state government’s initiatives.

Since arriving in New Delhi on Saturday, the chief minister has also held separate meetings with Nitin Nabin, BJP National president, and B L Santhosh, the party’s National general secretary (Organisation), to discuss organisational matters concerning Manipur.

On Sunday, Khemchand Singh, along with his deputies, met Union Home Minister Amit Shah to deliberate on key issues, including rehabilitation measures for IDPs and steps being taken by the new government to bridge divides between communities and restore peace and harmony in the state.