| Abstract: | Internal displacement caused by ethnic conflict has created severe economic and social challenges for affected households in Manipur. The internally displaced persons (IDPs) find themselves in an extremely vulnerable situation because of the sudden deprivation of livelihood, assets, and social stability. In such fragile conditions, informal social relations often become an important source of survival and adaptation. This study examines the role of social capital in shaping the economic resilience of internally displaced persons living in relief camps in Manipur. The study examines the main dimensions of social capital, i.e, trust, reciprocity, and network size, and correlations with the measures of economic resilience, e.g, income continuity, fund shortages, savings, and confidence of financial recovery, using primary data consisting of 50 displaced people. These relationships are studied using descriptive statistics and tests. The results indicate that close mutual relationships and expanded social networks are important factors that minimize economic stress and enhance trust in restoring livelihoods. Education and marital status also influence economic vulnerability among displaced households. The paper has shown the significance of enhancing social networks at community levels and livelihood and education policies in order to ensure sustainable recovery among the IDPs who are living in the conflict-affected regions. |
