Communal tension displaces Manipur students; measures taken for their welfare.

Manipur Education Minister, Th Basantakumar Singh, revealed that approximately 4,747 school students have been displaced due to the ongoing communal tension in the state. These students have sought refuge in relief camps established across Manipur.

Among the affected districts, Bishnupur witnessed the highest number of displacements, with 2,217 students impacted. Kangpokpi followed with 932 displaced students, and Imphal West district recorded 648 displacements. The Education Department of the state assured that necessary measures are being taken for the welfare of these affected students.

Minister Singh stated, “Starting from Monday, we will distribute study materials such as notebooks, pens, pencils, sports equipment, and uniforms to the displaced students.” Additionally, volunteer teachers will be deployed to relief camps to organize coaching classes and address the learning gaps faced by the displaced students. The government will collect textbooks from various sources to provide them to those students who currently lack access.

Furthermore, the minister emphasized that students in Class 9 to 12, who have been displaced, will be allowed transfers to schools of their choice if seats are available. In cases where selected schools are unable to accommodate them, arrangements will be made in nearby schools. For students residing in remote areas, distance learning support will be provided through the provision of gadgets such as tablets.

The minister also mentioned that data regarding displaced students pursuing higher studies is being collected and will be made available soon. The government remains committed to ensuring the continuity of education and the overall well-being of all affected students in Manipur.

Re-Reported from the story originally published in Indian Expess.