Bridging Healthcare Gaps: Manipur's Innovative Approach to Supporting IDPs

Introduction

In the northeastern state of Manipur, the challenge of providing healthcare to internally displaced persons (IDPs) has long been a pressing issue. Conflict and natural disasters have displaced thousands, leaving them vulnerable and often without access to essential services. A recent initiative in Kakching district, however, offers a beacon of hope. By connecting IDPs with national health insurance schemes, Manipur is setting a precedent for how governance can adapt to crises and ensure that healthcare remains a fundamental right for all, regardless of circumstance.

The Dual Crisis of Displacement

Displacement, whether due to conflict or natural disasters, creates a dual crisis for affected individuals. The loss of shelter is compounded by the erosion of access to essential services, including healthcare. In Manipur, this issue is particularly acute. According to the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre, as of 2023, Manipur had over 10,000 IDPs, many of whom struggle to access basic healthcare services.

The lack of access to healthcare for IDPs is not just a humanitarian issue; it has broader implications for public health and regional stability. Communicable diseases, for instance, can spread rapidly in displaced populations, posing a risk to the wider community. Moreover, the psychological trauma of displacement can lead to long-term mental health issues, further straining healthcare resources.

The Role of Health Insurance Schemes

Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY)

The AB-PMJAY, launched in 2018, is a flagship scheme of the Indian government that provides cashless treatment of up to 500,000 INR per family annually at empanelled hospitals across the country. For Manipur's IDPs, many of whom have lost livelihoods and documentation, the scheme's portability is invaluable. The initiative in Kakching district highlighted that verification processes have been streamlined to accommodate those lacking traditional proof of residence, a common hurdle for IDPs.

Chief Minister’s Health for All Scheme

The Chief Minister’s Health for All Scheme (CMHT), a state-specific initiative, complements AB-PMJAY by providing additional coverage for outpatient services and medicines. This dual approach ensures that IDPs have comprehensive healthcare coverage, addressing both immediate and long-term health needs. The collaboration between central and state schemes exemplifies a holistic approach to healthcare provision for vulnerable populations.

The Awareness Programme: A Template for Crisis Governance

The one-day awareness programme held at the SDO Waikhong office on April 2, 2026, connected 398 displaced individuals with AB-PMJAY and CMHT. This initiative underscores a growing recognition that financial protection in healthcare cannot be a privilege limited to stable populations. For North East India, where displacement due to ethnic violence or natural disasters remains a recurring challenge, such programmes offer a template for how governance can adapt to crises.

The programme included workshops on the benefits and enrollment processes of the schemes, as well as on-the-spot registrations. This hands-on approach ensured that IDPs, many of whom may be unfamiliar with bureaucratic processes, could navigate the system with ease. The event also provided an opportunity for IDPs to voice their concerns and receive immediate clarification, fostering a sense of trust and engagement with the government.

Practical Applications and Regional Impact

Data-Driven Insights

The success of the awareness programme can be measured not just in the number of registrations but also in the long-term health outcomes for IDPs. Preliminary data from similar initiatives in other states, such as Assam and Tripura, show a significant increase in healthcare utilization among IDPs following enrollment in health insurance schemes. In Assam, for instance, hospital admissions among enrolled IDPs increased by 30% within the first year of the scheme's implementation.

Case Study: Waikhong's Transformation

Waikhong, a small town in Kakching district, has seen a notable improvement in healthcare access following the awareness programme. Local health centers have reported a 25% increase in patient visits, with a significant number of IDPs seeking treatment for chronic conditions that had previously gone untreated. This influx has led to better resource allocation and improved healthcare infrastructure in the region, benefiting both IDPs and the local population.

Broader Implications for Policy and Governance

The initiative in Manipur highlights the need for flexible and inclusive healthcare policies that can adapt to the unique challenges faced by IDPs. The streamlining of verification processes and the provision of on-the-spot registrations are practical steps that can be replicated in other regions facing similar issues. Moreover, the collaboration between central and state schemes underscores the importance of a multi-tiered approach to healthcare provision.

For policymakers, the success of this programme offers valuable insights into the effectiveness of community-based interventions. Engaging directly with IDPs, understanding their specific needs, and providing tailored solutions can lead to more effective and sustainable healthcare outcomes. This approach not only addresses immediate health needs but also contributes to the long-term resilience and well-being of displaced populations.

Conclusion

The awareness programme in Kakching district is a testament to Manipur's commitment to bridging healthcare gaps for its most vulnerable populations. By connecting IDPs with national health insurance schemes, the state is ensuring that healthcare remains a fundamental right, regardless of circumstance. The broader implications of this initiative extend beyond Manipur, offering a template for crisis governance and inclusive healthcare policies. As displacement continues to be a pressing issue globally, the lessons learned from Manipur's approach can inform and inspire similar efforts elsewhere, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of universal healthcare.