The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on economies and livelihoods across the globe. In response to the economic hardships faced by individuals, the Manipur government has initiated a relief scheme aimed at providing financial assistance to those severely affected in the state.
Launch of the COVID-19 Affected Livelihood Support Scheme
The Manipur Chief Minister recently announced the launch of the COVID-19 Afflicted Livelihood Support Scheme. This initiative is designed to provide monetary aid to individuals who have been hit hardest by the economic disruptions due to the coronavirus outbreak. The support comes in the form of a direct cash transfer, intended to alleviate some of the financial strains experienced by people during these challenging times.
Financial Assistance Details
Under the newly launched scheme, eligible beneficiaries are set to receive a total of Rs. 5,000. This amount will be distributed in two equal installments of Rs. 2,500 each. The decision to implement this scheme was taken by the State Cabinet in July, following an assessment of the pandemic’s impact on the state’s economy and its residents’ livelihoods.
Target Beneficiaries
The scheme is aimed at supporting a wide array of individuals who have faced adverse economic conditions as a direct result of the pandemic. Among those who stand to benefit from the scheme are artists, street vendors, and drivers—groups that have experienced significant income loss due to the reduced economic activity during the pandemic. These beneficiaries were identified as particularly vulnerable to the economic downturn caused by COVID-19.
Disbursement of the First Installment
The first installment of the relief package, amounting to approximately Rs. 1.56 crore, has already been disbursed by the Manipur government. This initial disbursement marks a critical step in the state’s efforts to provide timely financial support to those in need. The government’s prompt action in releasing the funds underscores its commitment to mitigating the economic hardships faced by its citizens.
Timeline for the Second Installment
The second installment of the financial aid is scheduled to be disbursed within the following month. This next phase of the support scheme will continue to assist the affected individuals, helping them to navigate through the ongoing economic challenges. The timely rollout of the second installment is crucial for maintaining the momentum of the relief efforts and ensuring sustained support for the beneficiaries.
Impact of the Scheme
The COVID-19 Affected Livelihood Support Scheme is expected to have a significant impact on the lives of those it aims to help. By providing direct financial assistance, the scheme not only offers immediate relief but also contributes to the broader goal of economic recovery in the state. It is hoped that this support will enable beneficiaries to cover essential expenses and stabilize their financial situations during the pandemic.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Manipur government’s COVID-19 Affected Livelihood Support Scheme represents a targeted approach to relieve the financial burdens of those most affected by the pandemic. With the first installment already in the hands of beneficiaries and the second on its way, the scheme stands as a testament to the state’s proactive measures in addressing the economic fallout of the global health crisis.