Is the Manipur Government Making Progress in Restoring Normalcy?

Imphal, Aug 15 (NationPress) The Governor of Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, remarked on Friday that the state government has been working diligently to restore normalcy, improve security, and create a safer environment for all communities.

During the 79th Independence Day celebrations at the first Manipur Rifles ground in Imphal, the Governor announced a clear timeline for the safe and dignified return of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) affected by violence to their homes.

He highlighted that the state is at a crucial juncture in its development, urging the populace to transcend differences and collaborate in a spirit of peace and fraternity.

The Governor also pointed to various initiatives such as the ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan’, measures against workplace harassment, the ‘Back to School’ initiative for Self-Help Groups, and the establishment of 11 IT Centres in conflict-affected districts as essential steps toward building a more inclusive and resilient future.

Additionally, he noted that the government is promoting inclusive growth through awareness campaigns under the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (PM-DAJGUA), focusing on the sustainable development of tribal communities in the hill districts. Manipur has made significant progress in areas such as social welfare, infrastructure, and economic empowerment.

Among the initiatives highlighted were the ‘Hunar Se Rozgar’ scheme, skill development training for IDPs, and measures to enhance law and order, including expanded border fencing.

Bhalla mentioned the launch of the Rs one lakh crore PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing it as a transformative step for empowering the youth of the nation. He encouraged the young people of Manipur to seize this opportunity, emphasizing their role as the future torchbearers of the state and the country.

The Governor asserted that such initiatives are vital for realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat, where every young citizen actively contributes to building a strong, inclusive, and prosperous nation. He also noted the Union government’s special allocation of over Rs 2,800 crores for Manipur, aimed at enhancing infrastructure, public services, and rehabilitating displaced individuals.

He emphasized that honoring the sacrifices of the past means creating a future characterized by stability, opportunity, and dignity for everyone. The main function of the Independence Day celebrations concluded with cultural performances that highlighted the diverse traditions and rich heritage of Manipur.

Despite some outlawed groups calling for a shutdown to oppose the Independence Day celebrations, no incidents were reported from any part of the state, which has been affected by ethnic violence.

Under the close supervision of senior officials, a large contingent of the Army, Assam Rifles, the Border Security Force (BSF), the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), along with Manipur Police, have been deployed to manage ethnic tensions in the northeastern states since May 2023.

As part of the security measures, mobile check posts were established at strategic locations throughout Manipur to inspect vehicles and check passengers.