Prime Minister Visits Manipur; Inaugurates Various Development Projects, Lays Foundation Stone for Many More

In line with the Centre’s stated commitment to inclusive and sustainable development in the North East region, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today visited Manipur at two places viz Churachandpur and Imphal. During his visits, he inaugurated various developmental projects as well as laid foundation stones for many other upcoming projects.

The Prime Minister also interacted with the IDPs (internally-displaced persons) before addressing the public in both the venues at Churachandpur and Imphal.

Immediately after landing at the Imphal International Airport, the Prime Minister headed to Churachandpur district by road and, laid the foundation stone of multiple development projects to be implemented across the State worth over Rupees 7,300 crore at Peace Ground, Churachandpur, marking his first public engagement in the State since the ethnic violence of 2023.

Among the key projects announced were the Manipur Urban Roads, Drainage and Asset Management Improvement Project, estimated at Rupees 3,600 crore; five National Highway projects worth more than Rupees 2,500 crore; and the Manipur Infotech Development (MIND) project aimed at bolstering the state’s digital ecosystem. Additionally, the Prime Minister unveiled plans for Working Women Hostels at nine locations across the state.

Addressing a gathering at Peace Ground in Churachandpur, Mr. Modi called for peace and reconciliation, and assured Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) of the Centre’s continued support. He affirmed his support, stating that he stands with the people and that the Government of India is with Manipur.

“Violence has no place in society. Dialogue and unity are the way forward,” Mr. Modi said, urging communities to work together to restore normalcy. He announced financial aid for the construction of 7,000 houses for those affected by the unrest, reaffirming the government’s commitment to rehabilitation and inclusive development.

Calling Manipur “a land of strength and diversity,” Mr. Modi praised the resilience of its people and emphasized the State’s cultural and historical significance. “We want to make Manipur a symbol of peace and prosperity,” he said.

Governor of Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, members of the Manipur Legislative Assembly, government officials and general public attended the event.

Later, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the public event at Imphal at the historic Kangla. Here, he inaugurated a slew of development projects, both within and outside the State, worth over Rupees 1,200 crore.

Among the key projects inaugurated were the Manipur Bhawan at Dwarka, New Delhi worth Rupees 164 crore and the Manipur Bhawan at Salt Lake, Kolkata worth Rupees 42 crore. In Imphal, major works include the New Police Headquarters at Mantripukhri worth Rupees 101 crore, the IT-SEZ Building-I at Mantripukhri worth Rupees 114 crore, and the Civil Secretariat at Mantripukhri valued at Rupees 538 crore among many others.

The Prime Minister also inaugurated projects aimed at community and cultural development including the construction of Ima Markets at Tengnoupal, Noney, Pallel and Moirang worth Rupees 24 crore, the Leishang Hiden Cultural and Heritage Park at Imphal West worth Rupees 13 crore, the Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) at Tokpa Village, Churachandpur worth Rupees 16 Crore, construction of institutional building with staff quarter at Saikot CHC worth over Rupees 7 Crore, infrastructure creation for District Administration at Kamjong District worth over Rupees 15 Crore including many others in the sectors of education, healthcare, connectivity and administrative infrastructure.

Extending his congratulations to the people of Manipur for all the newly launched projects at Kangla, the Prime Minister stated that the Government of India has consistently prioritised the development of Manipur, resulting in steady economic growth. Highlighting the State’s rich cultural legacy.

“Manipur possesses a rich heritage that spans thousands of years. The cultural roots of the region are deep and strong. Manipur is the crown jewel adorning the crest of Mother India”, exclaimed the Prime Minister. He emphasized the need to continuously strengthen Manipur’s developmental image, while noting that any form of violence in the State is deeply unfortunate and a grave injustice to both the ancestors and future generations.

The Prime Minister acknowledged that many sons and daughters of Manipur continue to serve the nation and recalled the valour displayed during Operation Sindoor. The Prime Minister also saluted and paid tribute to Manipur’s own, Shaheed Deepak Chingkham, and stated that his courage and sacrifice during Operation Sindoor will always be remembered by the nation.

The Prime Minister also reminded the gathering that in his earlier visit, he had applauded the rich arts and culture of the State by saying that India’s arts and cultural richness is incomplete without Manipur. Likewise, sports in India will not be complete without the contribution from this State.

“Our government is continuously working to ensure peace and stability in Manipur”, exclaimed the PM, emphasising that the interests of the people must be safeguarded and that those forced to live in camps should be able to return to normal life. He informed that 7,000 new houses have been approved for displaced families. Shri Modi announced that the Central Government has recently declared a special package of approximately ₹3,000 crore for Manipur. He added that over ₹500 crore has been allocated specifically to assist displaced individuals. The PM further remarked that helping those affected by violence return to a normal life is a top priority for the government. He stated that the newly constructed headquarters for Manipur Police will also play a vital role in supporting this effort.

The Prime Minister concluded by expressing confidence that Manipur will become a powerful centre of India’s growth. The event was attended by the Governor of Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, members of the Manipur Legislative Assembly, government officials, members of various political parties, invitees and general public in spite of the heavy rain. (DIPR)