PM Modi Pledges Support for Manipur’s Development During Visit to Churachandpur

Prime Minister Narendra Modi made his first visit to Manipur since the outbreak of ethnic violence in 2023, underscoring the central government’s commitment to accelerating development in the region. The Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for infrastructure projects worth around Rs 7,000 crore, aimed at transforming Manipur’s socio-economic landscape.

Despite heavy rainfall, PM Modi addressed a large gathering in Churachandpur, where he praised the resilience and courage of the people of Manipur. He said, “The land of Manipur is the land of courage and bravery. I salute the passion of the people of Manipur. Despite the heavy rain, all of you came here. My helicopter couldn’t land due to the weather, so I travelled by road. The sight of the youth and elderly carrying the Tiranga (Indian flag) in their hands was something I will never forget.”

In his address, PM Modi highlighted Manipur's strategic and symbolic importance. “There is ‘Mani’ in the name Manipur. It is that ‘Mani’ which will make the entire Northeast shine in the future. The Government of India is committed to taking Manipur forward on the path of development,” he said.

His visit comes amid ongoing violence between the Meitei community and Kuki tribes that has led to over 250 deaths and displaced around 50,000 people since May 2023. Although the Prime Minister did not directly address the conflict, he focused on infrastructure development as a means to promote integration and progress in the state.

PM Modi elaborated on the government's contributions to improving the lives of Manipur’s residents, saying, “Nearly 60,000 pucca houses have already been built in Manipur, giving thousands of families dignity and security. Access to clean tap water has expanded from 25,000–30,000 houses to over 3.5 lakh households in recent years.”

In terms of connectivity, the Prime Minister highlighted several ambitious infrastructure projects. He spoke about the Jiribam-Imphal railway line, which will soon connect Imphal to the national rail network with an investment of Rs 22,000 crore. The Imphal airport, which was constructed at a cost of Rs 400 crore, is expected to further boost air connectivity in the region.

The Prime Minister also emphasized the government’s focus on road development: “Since 2014, our government has strongly focused on improving Manipur’s connectivity. Rs 3,700 crore has been spent on national highways, and Rs 8,700 crore is being allocated for new highway construction and village connectivity.”

In closing, PM Modi reassured the people of Manipur that he and the Government of India are with them. He said, “I promise you today that I am with you, the Government of India is with you, and the people of Manipur. Our government is making every possible effort to bring life back on track in Manipur. For families who have lost their homes, we are helping to build 7,000 new houses.”