Imphal, September 13 (HS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday laid the foundation stone and inaugurated 17 development projects worth over ₹1,200 crore in Manipur’s capital, Imphal. The projects include the Civil Secretariat at Mantripukhri, a new IT SEZ building, the state’s new Police Headquarters, Manipur Bhawans in Delhi and Kolkata, and dedicated Ima Markets for women in four districts.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said that these initiatives will ease the lives of common citizens, strengthen infrastructure in Manipur, and create new opportunities for the youth. Among the projects launched, the Manipur Urban Roads Project (₹3,600 crore) and the Manipur Infotech Development Project (₹500 crore) are of particular importance, promising to infuse new energy into Imphal and the entire state.
Highlighting the government’s focus on the region, PM Modi remarked, “In the past, development was concentrated in western and southern cities, where dreams took shape and opportunities emerged. But the 21st century belongs to the East and the Northeast. That is why the Government of India has made Manipur’s progress a top priority. As a result, Manipur’s growth rate has steadily risen. Before 2014, the state’s growth rate was less than one percent; today, Manipur is advancing far more rapidly.”
He also acknowledged Manipur’s recurring flood challenges and assured that the government is working on multiple projects to minimize their impact.
Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, who also attended the event, underlined the resilience of the state over the past two years. He said that despite the challenges, peace and harmony are gradually being restored with the joint efforts of the Centre and the state government. Appeals were made to citizens to rise above differences and work collectively for peace and prosperity. Governor Bhalla further noted improvements in law and order, the resumption of healthcare services, and the ongoing rehabilitation of displaced families.
Earlier, during his visit to Churachandpur, the Prime Minister had launched more than ₹7,300 crore worth of projects, including urban roads, drainage and asset management schemes, five national highway projects, and the Manipur Infotech Development Project. During his stay in Imphal, PM Modi also interacted with members of the local community.
