IMPHAL, India – In a long-awaited visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Manipur on Saturday, his first visit to the state since the outbreak of ethnic violence in May 2023. The visit, which has been described as an attempt to provide a “healing touch,” included the announcement of development projects worth ₹8,500 crore, aimed at restoring normalcy and fostering growth.
The Prime Minister’s itinerary was carefully planned to reflect a balanced approach to the state’s deep ethnic divisions. He began his day by visiting the Kuki-dominated area of Churachandpur, a key flashpoint in the conflict, where he met with families displaced by the violence. At the aptly named Peace Ground in Churachandpur, he laid the foundation stone for various development projects valued at ₹7,300 crore.
Later, the Prime Minister traveled to the Meitei-dominated state capital, Imphal, where he inaugurated infrastructure projects worth ₹1,200 crore at the historic Kangla Fort. The dual engagement in both regions is seen as a symbolic gesture of neutrality and a signal that the Central government is committed to the welfare of all communities in the state.
During his address, PM Modi acknowledged the “unfortunate” violence that had scarred the state and said he was confident that a “new dawn of hope and trust is rising in Manipur.” He called for peace and unity, and promised that the Government of India would provide all necessary support to the state government in its efforts to restore normalcy.
The projects announced include a wide range of initiatives focused on infrastructure and social development.
Among the key projects are:
Manipur Urban Roads, Drainage, and Asset Management Improvement Project: Worth over ₹3,600 crore.
National Highway Projects: Five new projects valued at more than ₹2,500 crore.
Manipur Infotech Development (MIND) Project: Valued at ₹550 crore.
Healthcare and Social Welfare: The construction of nine working women’s hostels and super-specialty healthcare facilities.
Education: Strengthening facilities in 120 schools across 16 districts.
The Prime Minister’s visit has been met with mixed reactions. While many hope it will pave the way for a lasting peace, some opposition parties have criticized him for the delay in visiting the state, where ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities have left over 260 people dead and thousands displaced since May 2023.
