Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has appealed to Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu to incorporate the Imphal–Guwahati route into the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)-UDAN. This initiative aims to alleviate transportation issues in Manipur and bolster the state’s socio-economic development. In his letter dated February 16, the Chief Minister noted that airfares for the Imphal–Guwahati route are considerably higher than comparable routes in other northeastern states, placing a financial strain on citizens who depend on air travel.
Singh emphasized the lack of alternative travel options due to frequent disruptions in surface transport and non-operational railway services, making air connectivity essential for the state’s residents. Additionally, the state government has significantly reduced the Value Added Tax (VAT) on Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) to improve air travel and promote tourism. The Chief Minister’s request for the route’s inclusion in the RCS-UDAN could lead to more affordable air travel for residents.
In a related development, a delegation from the Alumni Association of Aligarh Muslim University, Manipur Chapter, met with the Chief Minister to discuss the establishment of an Admission Test Centre for the university in Manipur. The Chief Minister confirmed that a test centre for Class XI and Diploma Engineering courses has been approved and assured the delegation he would formally write to the Vice Chancellor to extend this service to undergraduate courses, improving higher education access for local students.
Moreover, representatives from the Mayai Lambi Apunba Lup (MALAL) visited the Chief Minister, expressing gratitude for infrastructure improvements along NH-137A. Khemchand acknowledged their suggestions regarding road widening and drainage improvements and assured that their requests would be considered for enhancing public infrastructure.