Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on 15 August 2025 declared that peace is the bedrock of development, asserting that lasting stability in the conflict-affected state can only be built on mutual trust, justice, dignity, and the inclusive participation of all communities. He was speaking after hoisting the National Flag at the 1st Manipur Rifles Parade Ground in Imphal on the occasion of Independence Day.

Condemnation of Kangpokpi Violence

Chief Minister Singh strongly condemned the incident that occurred on Friday, in which two Naga farmers were killed and two others were injured in Kangpokpi district. Describing it as an unfortunate episode, he appealed to all sections of society to rebuild mutual trust and commit to peaceful coexistence. The incident underscores the fragility of the ground situation in Manipur, where ethnic tensions have persisted for over two years.

Centre's Role and Collective Responsibility

Acknowledging the support extended by the Central government in peace-restoration efforts, Singh called upon citizens to work collectively towards development and the building of a stronger Manipur. He recalled the sacrifices of freedom fighters and underlined India's progress in infrastructure, manufacturing, innovation, and inclusive development since independence. He also invoked the vision of 'Viksit Bharat' — the goal of making India a developed, self-reliant, and globally competitive nation by 2047.

Development Initiatives Highlighted

The Chief Minister outlined a range of welfare and infrastructure measures undertaken in the state. Healthcare access in remote hill areas is being expanded through Mobile Medical Units, PM-JANMAN, and the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan. Rural drinking water supply is being strengthened under Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0.

On rural livelihoods, Singh said the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rojgar and Aajeevika Mission (Grameen) has increased guaranteed employment from 100 to 125 days and daily wages from ₹263 to ₹300. Around 2.4 lakh beneficiaries received assistance of ₹91 crore under 17 social welfare schemes, while 35 ethnically displaced persons suffering from chronic illnesses were each provided ₹1 lakh.

A bio-reactor unit for biofertiliser production has been established at CSIR-NEIST to promote organic farming. Under the 77th Van Mahotsav, 15 lakh tree saplings were planted across the state.

Law, Order and Emergency Infrastructure

On the security front, 477 new vehicles were distributed to the Manipur Police, and the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS)-112 was launched to bolster emergency response capabilities. An exclusive Special NIA Court was established in Thoubal district, and the Nodera Emergency Response Application was launched in Noney. A Manipur Police Museum has also been set up to preserve the history and legacy of the force.

Sports, Education and Digital Initiatives

Singh congratulated Manipuri athletes who won medals at the recent Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and praised Ariha Pangambam for winning India's first gold medal at the Asian Aerobic Gymnastics Championship in Mongolia. In education, a District Institute of Education and Training (DIET) building was inaugurated at Salam and a school library established at Heirangoithong High School.

Digital and AI literacy initiatives were also spotlighted, including Yashoda AI — a national AI literacy and digital safety campaign promoting digital awareness among women through the National Commission for Women. The ceremonial parade featured 23 contingents from security forces, police, civil departments, and educational institutions, commanded by Haobam Sanghamita, Commandant of the 9th Manipur Rifles battalion.

With peace still elusive in several pockets of Manipur, the Chief Minister's Independence Day address signals a renewed push to balance security imperatives with community reconciliation and development delivery.