Infrastructural Development in Manipur: An overview

The importance of infrastructure for sustained economic development is well recognized. In this modern era, infrastructure is very important for increasing productivity and sustainability of an economy. A strong infrastructure is the prerequisite for a quick agricultural and industrial growth. It is the backbone of every economy. Providing infrastructure services from top business group down to household general people is one of the major challenges of every country. Infrastructure will include in addition to economic overhead like transport, communication, power and irrigation social facilities like education, health and water supply as well as institution providing credit, marketing and extension facilities. Infrastructure can deliver major changes in economic growth, poverty alleviation and environmental sustainability. It contributes to economic development by increasing productivity and by providing amenities that enhance the quality of life. It affects each of the economic activities such as production, distribution, consumption and trade. In fact a strong foundation of the economy demands functional coordination of various items of infrastructure.
The relationship between each of the infrastructure sectors and the environment is complex. It has got both the positive and negative effects on the individual, society, economy and natural environment. Thus the key challenge is how to manage infrastructure provision in such a manner that the resultant growth is socially inclusive. In the light of this general background in infrastructure and its relationship to economic growth, the present research paper highlights about the overall infrastructural development in the economic scenario of Manipur.