No Assessment on MSME Damage Due to Conflict
In a response to a query raised by Congress MP A. Bimal Akoijam, the Union government informed the Lok Sabha on December 12, 2024, that no specific assessment has been conducted to evaluate the extent of damage caused to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Manipur due to the ongoing ethnic conflict in the state. The conflict has been affecting the region for over 18 months, but the government has yet to carry out a targeted analysis of its impact on local businesses.
Lack of Special Relief Packages for MSMEs
The query also inquired about the possibility of special relief packages for MSMEs in the state to mitigate the effects of the conflict on livelihoods. However, the government has not announced any specific relief measures so far for these enterprises. Manipur is home to more than 1.22 lakh MSMEs, and the prolonged conflict has disrupted business operations, leading to concerns about their survival.
Ongoing Challenges for MSMEs in Manipur
The absence of an assessment and relief packages raises questions about the government’s support for local MSMEs struggling amid the ongoing unrest. The lack of targeted intervention has left many businesses vulnerable, with no immediate prospects of recovery or compensation for their losses.
The situation remains challenging for businesses in the state, with many unsure of how they will recover from the prolonged disruptions caused by the ethnic conflict. The government’s response to this issue will be crucial in determining the future stability and growth of MSMEs in Manipur.
