A delegation of the Ex-Autonomous District Council (ADC) Members’ Forum of Manipur, led by Convenor RS Ngaranchui, today met Additional Chief Secretary (Tribal Affairs & Hills) Shri Anurag Bajpai, IFS, and submitted a memorandum expressing concern over the prolonged delay in holding ADC elections in the State.

The Forum highlighted that the absence of elected local bodies in the hill areas has weakened grassroots governance and stalled development initiatives. They also cited the recent High Court directive mandating the State Government to conduct long-pending Panchayat elections within six months, urging similar urgency for ADC elections.

Responding positively, Bajpai assured that the concerns would be addressed, while outlining the Department’s priorities in the hill districts. He emphasized strengthening the education system through Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS), with one proposed in each tribal block. Several EMRS projects are nearing completion, including those in Churachandpur and Chandel.

The ACS also stressed on enhancing healthcare facilities, improving connectivity through PMGSY and Inter-Village Roads, and promoting agriculture, horticulture, and forestry as key drivers of the State’s economy. He revealed plans for new Industrial Estates in hill districts such as Kangpokpi, Senapati, Tengnoupal, Kamjong, and Pherzawl, in addition to upcoming inaugurations in Ukhrul and Chandel.

On the Forum’s demand for ex-ADC members’ pensions, Shri Bajpai said the matter is under active examination. He also briefed the delegation on ongoing initiatives for Carbon Trading Projects in collaboration with village authorities, aimed at generating livelihood opportunities and supporting climate action.

The Ex-ADC Forum expressed gratitude to Bajpai for his inclusive and people-centric approach, acknowledging the Department’s efforts in ensuring accountability, transparency, and timely completion of projects under his leadership.