CM asks MLAs, bureaucrats to work for Manipur's development

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh today sought the cooperation of bureaucrats and legislators in carrying out development work in the state.

"The lawmakers have been elected to power so that they can work for the welfare of the people. Clocking office hours every day may not be enough to realize this purpose," he said during a first-of-its-kind interactive session with cabinet ministers and bureaucrats at City Convention Centre here.

The CM also announced the launch of "Go to Village" programme for the farmers of the state.

The programme, to be initiated in the first week of May, will deal with agricultural problems experienced by farmers, create awareness on construction of homes in disaster-prone areas, and enable better cooperation among horticulture, agriculture and fisheries departments.

"We should take inspiration from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Sab ka Saath, Sab ka Vikas scheme," he said.

The legislators have entered an agreement, under which they will have to build at least 20 houses in their respective constituencies for underprivileged people, the CM said.

Stressing the need to "upgrade the quality of life", he said, all government programmes need to be implemented on time and monitored routinely to ensure their success.

"The BJP-led government has been able to bridge the gap that had existed between diverse communities, stop strikes and blockades, and focus on development by initiating different projects," the CM said, adding that he holds parleys with people from time to time to listen to their grievances.

Several officials, on this occasion, aired their grievances, which ranged from manpower shortage to lack of office space and outdated equipment of fire services.

Additional Director General of Police Christopher Doungel said home guard personnel do not get proper vehicles or barracks.

Additional SP L Priyadarshini called for better coordination between social welfare department and police.

She also sought the launch of an emergency number for transporting accident victims in well-equipped ambulances.

The CM, on his part, promised to look into the problems encountered by officials in their every day work.