September 13(HS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Manipur on Saturday, marking his first visit since violent ethnic clashes between the Kuki and Meitei communities erupted in 2023, which claimed over 260 lives and displaced thousands. His visit aims to restore peace and boost development in the conflict-affected northeastern state.
At Churachandpur, one of the worst-hit areas,PM Modi met with internally displaced families and assured them of the Centre’s unwavering support. He emphasized the importance of peace and reconciliation, stating, “I am with you. The Centre is with you.” He acknowledged the ongoing peace talks and called for unity to usher in a new dawn for Manipur.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged all organisations in Manipur to embrace the path of peace for the secure future of children and the progress of the state, stressing that peace is the foremost pillar of development. He reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to making Manipur a symbol of peace, prosperity and progress.
Addressing a public gathering in Churachandpur after laying the foundation stone of development projects worth over ₹7,300 crore, the Prime Minister said, “I appeal to all organisations to walk on the path of peace and fulfill their dreams. The Government of India stands firmly with the people of Manipur at every step.” PM Modi expressed satisfaction that dialogues with different groups from the Hills and Valley have made progress towards peace agreements, reflecting the Centre’s consistent policy of dialogue, respect and mutual understanding to achieve lasting peace.
Major Projects Announced
The projects inaugurated include a ₹3,600 crore Urban Roads, Drainage and Asset Management project, five national highway projects worth ₹2,500 crore, the Manipur Infotech Development (MIND) project, and working women’s hostels in nine locations. PM Modi said these initiatives would uplift the lives of Hills and tribal communities, fostering inclusive growth.
Emphasis on Connectivity and Infrastructure
Highlighting Manipur’s geographical challenges, the Prime Minister noted that connectivity in the state has historically been a major hurdle. Since 2014, the Centre has invested heavily in roads and rail networks. Over the past few years, ₹3,700 crore have been spent on national highways, while projects worth ₹8,700 crore are under construction. The Jiribam–Imphal railway line, nearing completion, will soon connect Imphal to the national rail network, accelerating economic activities in the state.
PM Modi recalled that once it was extremely difficult to reach villages in Manipur, but today hundreds have road connectivity. He cited the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, under which nearly 60,000 houses have been built in the state, and the Jal Jeevan Mission, which has expanded piped water coverage from a mere 25,000–30,000 households to over 3.5 lakh.
Healthcare and Education Boost
The Prime Minister pointed out that for decades after Independence, not a single medical college existed in Manipur’s hill districts, but now Churachandpur boasts a medical college. Under the PM-DIVYA scheme, modern healthcare facilities are being developed across five hill districts. Through Ayushman Bharat, over 2.5 lakh patients in Manipur have already received free treatment of up to ₹5 lakh.
Manipur in India’s Growth Story
PM Modi underlined that India today stands as the world’s fastest-growing major economy and is on track to soon become the third-largest. This rapid progress, he said, directly benefits Manipur, which once saw Delhi’s decisions taking decades to reach the state but now develops in tandem with the rest of the nation.
Acknowledging People’s Spirit
Expressing gratitude for the warm welcome despite heavy rains,PM Modi recounted how, after his helicopter could not take off due to bad weather, he travelled by road to Churachandpur where people lined the route, waving the tricolour. “The love and warmth I received will forever remain with me. I bow my head in respect before the people of Manipur,” he said.
He hailed Manipur as a land of courage, natural beauty and resilience, remarking that the very name “Manipur” embodies the essence of a gem (man i) that enriches the Northeast’s radiance.
Call for Unity
Throughout his address,PM Modi underscored the need for peace and harmony, declaring that Manipur’s true strength lies in its unity and collective spirit. “The Government of India is determined to strengthen this spirit in the direction of development and prosperity,” he said, promising continued efforts to take the state to new heights of growth.
