Imphal, 30 October 2020 (Evening News ) : Chief Minister Nongthombam Biren today announced the drafting of a new COVID-19 related SOP  to combat coronavirus pandemic in Manipur. He further claimed that following the new SOP for 14 to 20 days will eliminate coronavirus pandemic from the state. The Chief Minister also declared one year life insurance for Covid-19 frontline warriors till 2021. N Biren was speaking today at the distribution of COVID-19 awareness banners and leaflets to State Health Department, a nodal department under the Jan Andolan Campaign at CM secretariat. The Banners and leaflets will be pasted on every vehicle plying on the streets and the same have been given to the Agriculture department, ASHA and Anganwadi workers. Chief Minister N Biren also said that State level Coordinating committee has been formed comprising of representatives of CSOs, Student Bodies, Health Department, Police and others working at the local level. The committee office will be opened for 24 hours with a toll free helpline number. He added that so far 62 Crore rupees have been utilised from CM Relief fund to combat the pandemic.

Responding to Impact News Query about setting up a dedicated Infectious Disease Hospital in Manipur, Chief Minister N. Biren said, setting up of a 100 Bedded infectious disease ward at JNIMS has already begun some months ago. He disclosed that a proposal has also been submitted to the Centre for establishing a dedicated Infectious Disease Hospital and discussions are underway to select an appropriate site in Imphal West District. Regarding re-imposition of complete lockdown in Manipur, Chief Minister N. Biren said, the central team is taking stock of the current situation in Manipur and as per their report it will be decided later whether to re-impose total lockdown or not. He assured that Government is increasing the number of patient beds at RIMS & JNIMS as well as increasing Ventilators, PPEs and other necessary equipments at Districts level in the wake of surging number Covid-19 confirmed cases. Biren said there are altogether 2 Thousand 247 beds for COVID-19 patients and more beds will be added at Shija hospital and RAJ Medicity. Chief Minister Nongthombam Biren also announced that COVID-19 treatment will be covered under CMHT and Ayushman Bharat Health schemes.