Will PM Modi Continue His Support for Manipur's Peace and Prosperity?

Imphal, Sep 13 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured on Saturday that both he and the Government of India would consistently support Manipur while striving to foster the state’s peace and prosperity. While laying the foundation stones for 19 development initiatives worth Rs 7,300 crore at the Peace Ground in Churachandpur, the Prime Minister emphasized that peace is essential for any developmental efforts.

Highlighting the violence that has impacted Manipur, PM Modi mentioned that discussions have commenced with various ethnic communities, ensuring that all stakeholders are acknowledged and respected.

“I urge everyone to assist the government in restoring peace and facilitating development for the betterment of all, particularly for future generations,” the Prime Minister stated.

Prior to his speech at the Peace Ground, he engaged with residents of relief camps, where thousands, including men, women, and children, have sought refuge since the violence erupted in May 2023.

PM Modi remarked that many ethnic conflicts in the Northeastern states have been resolved through dialogue and stressed that peace and development would be further advanced in Manipur.

He noted that, as a border state, Manipur previously faced significant connectivity challenges, but since 2014, persistent efforts have been made to enhance road, rail, and air connections, with substantial budgetary increases.

He shared with the audience that Rs 3,700 crore has been allocated for the development of National Highways, and projects worth Rs 8,700 crore are currently in progress for new highways.

Additionally, PM Modi highlighted that railway connectivity in Manipur is being expanded at a cost of Rs 22,000 crore, with the Jiribam-Imphal railway project nearing completion, linking the state capital (Imphal) to the national railway network.

He also announced plans for more helicopter services from Imphal airport, connecting remote areas and enhancing employment opportunities for the youth.

Addressing the plight of those displaced by violence, he mentioned that over 7,000 homes are being constructed for affected individuals, alongside a special package of Rs 3,000 crore and an additional Rs 500 crore allocated for relief.

Emphasizing the life and culture of the tribals in Churachandpur, PM Modi stated: “I understand the challenges faced by the tribals. Their development remains a priority for the government. Special initiatives are in place for over 500 tribal villages in Manipur.”

He noted that 18 Eklavya Model Residential Schools are under construction in Manipur, recognizing the state's tradition of empowering women, a goal the central government supports.

Without directly criticizing previous administrations, he pointed out that while funds were announced from Delhi, they often did not reach Imphal.

“Through various housing schemes, over 60,000 homes have been built, electricity issues have been resolved for countless families, more than one lakh people have received free electricity connections, and over 3.50 lakh households have been provided with piped water connections in Manipur,” he elaborated.

“Quality hospitals and educational institutions were once mere aspirations in Manipur, but they are now a reality. Under the PM-DevINE (Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region), health services are being enhanced across five districts, with over Rs 350 crore allocated for free medical treatments for many,” PM Modi affirmed.

The 19 projects for which PM Modi laid foundation stones include the Manipur Urban Roads, a Drainage and Asset Management Improvement Project, the Manipur Infotech Development (MIND) project, infrastructure development in Imphal, skill development, and employment generation across the state, as well as upgrades to National Highway 102A in Tengnoupal district.

Due to heavy rainfall, the Prime Minister chose to travel to Churachandpur by road from Imphal international airport instead of by helicopter, given the unsuitable weather conditions.

“Despite the heavy rains, PM Modi made the decision to reach the rally venue by road, regardless of the time it took, just to interact with the people,” an official stated.

Churachandpur, a district inhabited by tribals that shares borders with Myanmar and Mizoram, is located 61 km south of Imphal. During the 1.5-hour road journey, a large crowd of men, women, and children waved the Indian Tricolour to greet the Prime Minister.

Following his visit to Churachandpur, PM Modi returned to Imphal, where he plans to inaugurate infrastructure projects valued at Rs 1,200 crore from the historic Kangla Fort and address large gatherings.