PM Modi pledges peace, prosperity in first visit to violence-hit Manipur

Churachandpur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday declared that his government stood with the people of Manipur and aimed to make the state a symbol of peace and prosperity. Addressing a public meeting in the Kuki-dominated Churachandpur district during his first visit to the state since ethnic violence broke out in May 2023, Modi said the Centre’s continuous efforts towards reconciliation had paved the way for talks between the two warring sides.

“It is unfortunate that violence happened here. Today, I want to promise you that the Government of India is with you, and I am with you,” he said.

“I would appeal to all groups and organisations to choose the path of peace,” he added.

Modi stressed that peace was paramount for development and reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to achieving it. He noted that budget allocation for railway and road connectivity projects in Manipur had been significantly increased.

“Since 2014, I have given special emphasis to improving connectivity in Manipur,” he said. “India will soon become the world’s third-largest economy, and I want to ensure that the fruits of development reach every corner of the country.”

Calling Manipur a land of courage and valour, the Prime Minister said he could never forget the love he received during his journey from Imphal to Churachandpur by road.

“I spoke to the displaced people, and I can say that Manipur is looking towards a new dawn. People have chosen the path of peace,” he said.

Modi added that the projects he inaugurated would improve people’s lives in infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

“Just a short while ago, from this very platform, projects worth over ₹7,300 crore were unveiled. These projects will further improve the lives of the people of Manipur, especially the tribal communities living in the hills,” he said.

Modi laid foundation stones for projects worth over ₹7,300 crore from Manipur's Churachandpur district.

Among these projects were Manipur urban roads, drainage and asset management improvement initiative worth ₹3,647 crore and Manipur Infotech Development (MIND) project worth ₹550 crore, an official statement said.

He also laid the foundation for nine working women's hostels worth ₹142 crore, and super-speciality and healthcare facilities to be developed at ₹ 105 crore.

Modi laid the foundation stones for infrastructure development in and around Polo Ground at ₹30 crore, and the strengthening of facilities of 120 schools at a cost of ₹134 crore in all 16 districts.

Various projects pertaining to rural connectivity, education and tourism in parts of Manipur with a total value of ₹102 crore were also included on the list of initiatives for which the foundation stones were laid.

Construction of a multipurpose indoor stadium worth ₹36 crore at Khuman Lampak Sports Complex in Imphal, and upgradation of NH 102 A in Tengnoupal sections worth ₹502 crore, were also on the list.