PM Modi inaugurates Rs 1,200 crore projects, pledges peace and development.
Guwahati: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated multiple development projects worth over Rs 1,200 crore in Imphal, Manipur, on Saturday.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister highlighted that these projects aim to enhance living standards, strengthen infrastructure, and create new employment opportunities for the youth and residents of the state.
Among the initiatives launched, two were particularly significant: the Manipur Urban Roads Project, with an investment exceeding Rs 3,600 crore, and the Manipur Infotech Development Project, with over Rs 500 crore invested. Modi remarked that these projects will strengthen road infrastructure in Imphal and inject new energy into Manipur’s development trajectory. He extended his congratulations and best wishes to the people of the state.
Highlighting regional disparities since independence, the Prime Minister noted that major cities in western and southern India had historically developed into hubs of aspiration, providing new opportunities for youth. “The 21st century belongs to the East and the North East,” he added. Modi emphasised that the Government of India has consistently prioritised Manipur’s development, noting a steady increase in the state’s growth rate. Before 2014, the growth rate was less than one percent; today, Manipur is progressing several times faster. He stressed that a new phase of infrastructure development has begun, with accelerated road construction, National Highway expansion, and rapid work to extend road connectivity to every village.
The visit comes amid over two years of violence following the clashes of May 2023, which forced the Kuki and Meitei communities to live separately. A key aspect of Modi’s visit, alongside development projects, was interaction with displaced persons from both communities.
During his visit to Churachandpur’s Peace Ground and Imphal’s Kangla, Modi met displaced families and listened to their concerns, assuring them of the Centre’s commitment to restoring peace and normalcy. Speaking to TSG, a displaced woman said, “The PM has assured us of help to rehabilitate. We hope this will bring a positive solution for Manipur.”
Displaced persons are currently housed in various relief camps across the state. A resident told TSG, “We will try to bring peace to Manipur and take steps towards reconciliation. I will also tell the Kuki community, as well as my own Meitei community, that there is no benefit in fighting.” He further expressed his desire to return and resettle in his original home, saying, “Our old place is where we want to go back and settle,” underscoring the communities’ longing for normalcy and coexistence.
The Prime Minister stressed that peace in Manipur is non-negotiable and can only be achieved through dialogue and unity.
“Manipur has immense potential, but violence weakens our social fabric. Only peace and harmony can restore the state’s rightful place as India’s eastern crown jewel,” he said.
Modi’s visit comes amid criticism from opposition parties for not visiting the violence-affected state earlier, where 260 people have died and thousands have been rendered homeless. Attempting to address these concerns, the Prime Minister emphasised that his government stands firmly with the people of Manipur.
“Manipur has a rich heritage going back thousands of years, with deep cultural roots. We are working to ensure its peace and stability and strengthen its image as a land of development and progress,” he concluded.
