Mail News Service
Imphal, July 12: Social welfare minister, Ak Mirabai informed the House that the state government is ahead from other states in looking after the needs of the physically challenged persons. She said physically challenged persons are given monthly assistance and as per 2001 census there are 28,376 physically challenged persons in the state.
The assistance given to them will be increased she assured. Raising the matter during call attention, Dr I Ibohalbi said the government should extend more facilities as they can not come on their own and run here and there to get some benefits.She also informed the House that the state government is taking up welfare schemes for the disabled and said a state commissioner (disability) will be appointed after making some changes in the rules of the state PWD. The proposal will also be put before the state Cabinet reiterating that there is no question of depriving the rights of the handicapped.
Seven demands for grants were also taken up and passed. Chief Minister, O Ibobi moved demands for grants for an amount of Rs 8.38 cr for Information, Rs 16.85 cr for Cooperation, Rs 107 cr for Forest, Rs 132 cr for Industries, Rs 286 cr for Public health, Rs 8.27 cr for Science and Technology and Rs 10.52 cr for Relief.
Dr I Ibohalbi said the government has failed to revamp cooperation movement in the state and sufficient potable water is not given to consumers. Solar energy should be popularised he further observed.
P Brojen said revenue collection and afforestation schemes are poor. Kh Joykisan said forest should be protected.
L Ibomcha and Th Shyamkumar said land disputes related to forest areas should be resolved. P Dikho nformed that small scale industries should be promoted and grant in aid schemes should be given to entrepreneurs. He demanded a proper industry policy.
During question hour Ginsuanhau said there is drought like situation in the state and the Agriculture department should take up appropriate actions. Md Nasir, Agriculture Minister said the department has recommended to grow short duration paddy varieties to face the delay in monsoon and if drought occurs an interim crop contingency plan will be prepared.
Th Debendra, Minister Forest said the state government has declared 1,467 sq km as reserve forest and 70,878 million cum woods and 116.17 tonnes bamboo are growing in the reserve forest and during the last three years a sum of Rs 651 lakh came as revenue.
Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/govt-ready-to-face-drought-nasir/
