Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday laid the foundation stone for multiple infrastructure and welfare projects worth over Rs 7,300 crore in Manipur’s Churachandpur district, reaffirming the Centre’s focus on boosting development in the Northeastern state.
This is the prime minister’s first visit to Manipur since ethnic violence broke out in May 2023. He began his two-day tour of Mizoram, Manipur, and Assam with a stop in Churachandpur, a district largely inhabited by the Kuki community, where he interacted with locals, including those affected by the violence.
Foundation for key projects
The projects launched include the Manipur Urban Roads, Drainage and Asset Management Improvement Project worth over Rs 3,600 crore, five National Highway works totalling more than Rs 2,500 crore, the Manipur Infotech Development (MIND) project, and the setting up of Working Women’s Hostels at nine locations.
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He also interacted with students who welcomed him with portraits before addressing a large public gathering.
‘Manipur is the land of courage and determination’
Addressing the crowd, PM Modi said, “Manipur is the land of courage and determination. These hills are a priceless gift of nature, and at the same time, they symbolise your continuous hard work. I salute the passion of the people of Manipur. You all have come here in this heavy rain, and I thank you for it.”
“Due to the heavy rainfall, my helicopter was not able to fly, and hence I decided to come by road. What I saw on the roads, after that, I am truly thankful that I did not choose to come from a helicopter today. The way I saw the youth and elderly people of Manipur carrying the Tricolour in their hands, I can never forget this moment in my life, and I bow down to the people here,” he added.
Development focus for Northeast
The prime minister emphasised his government’s commitment to the region’s progress, saying, “The traditions and culture of this region, the vibrancy and diversity here, reflect India’s strength. And above everything, the name Manipur itself contains ‘Mani’, which symbolises a jewel that will enhance the sheen of the entire Northeast in the times to come.”
Highlighting the benefits of the projects, he noted, “These projects will improve the lives of people, especially the tribal communities living in the hills of Manipur. They will provide new facilities in health and education for you all. I congratulate the people of Manipur for this.”
PM Modi underlined connectivity as a crucial need in the border state. “Manipur is a border state, and connectivity here has always been a major challenge. I fully understand the difficulties you have faced due to the lack of good roads. That is why, since 2014, I have focussed strongly on continuously improving Manipur’s connectivity.”
