Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Monday, 27 July reaffirmed his government's commitment to restoring normalcy in the state, saying that lasting peace and harmony are the bedrock of any meaningful development. His remarks came nearly three years into the ethnic conflict that has deeply fractured the state's social fabric and economy.

Key Developments at Andro

Speaking after inaugurating several development projects in Andro Assembly constituency, the Chief Minister acknowledged that the prolonged unrest has severely damaged inter-community relations, disrupted the education of an entire generation, and dealt a heavy blow to Manipur's economy. The inauguration was held in the presence of local MLA Thounaojam Shyamkumar.

Among the projects launched were a newly constructed Ima Market — an all-woman marketplace — at Andro, and two bridges over the Thoubal River. The Ima Market holds deep cultural significance in Manipur's matrilineal trading tradition.

What the Chief Minister Said

Khemchand Singh appealed to all communities across both the hills and the valley regions to cooperate in rebuilding peace. He expressed his aspiration to restore the Manipur that existed before 3 May 2023 — the date the ethnic violence erupted — when all 36 communities of the state coexisted in harmony.

'I look forward to rebuilding the Manipur that existed before May 3, 2023, when all 36 communities lived together in harmony,' he said, urging citizens to collectively work towards unity and shared progress.

This was the Chief Minister's second visit to Andro since assuming office under the new government on 4 February, which he described as a reflection of the administration's commitment to the constituency's development.

Development Announcements for Andro

Describing Andro as one of the oldest settlements in Asia with immense historical and cultural significance, the Chief Minister announced that the government would sanction ₹10 crore for the construction and improvement of small inter-village roads in the constituency. He also assured that steps would be taken to construct a dedicated Municipal Council office, noting the current absence of one in Andro.

Andro is also noted for its phenomenon of natural fire, which attracts researchers and visitors from across India and abroad.

Local Voices and Concerns

MLA Shyamkumar acknowledged that development in the constituency had slowed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the ongoing conflict, and other unforeseen challenges. With the formation of the new government, he expressed confidence that developmental momentum would be restored in the coming years.

Various welfare associations, youth clubs, and local organisations submitted memoranda to the Chief Minister seeking road construction and improvement, establishment of a Municipal Council office, construction of retaining walls, appointment of primary school teachers, and implementation of other developmental projects.

Deputy Commissioner (Imphal East district) Lairenlakpam Nivedita, senior officials of the Planning Department, district administration, public representatives, and a large number of residents attended the function.

With peace still fragile and communities fractured, the government's ability to translate these development pledges into tangible outcomes will be closely watched in the months ahead.