Imphal, Oct. 23 -- The Manipur Cabinet has approved the resumption of helicopter services to remote areas, declared Loktak Day an annual state festival and allowed eligible newspaper printing presses to seek permission to use a limited area of contiguous paddy land.

The decisions were taken at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh at the Chief Minister's Office in Mantripukhri on October 22.

The Cabinet approved engaging Pawan Hans Limited, a Government of India undertaking, to restore helicopter services in Manipur, which have remained suspended since October 1, 2026.

Under the arrangement, one twin-engine helicopter will operate for six months or until a regular operator is selected through a tender proce...