PM Modi inaugurated 17 projects worth ₹1,200 crore in Manipur, highlighting unity, women empowerment, and infrastructure growth. He emphasized inclusive development, cultural pride, and employment opportunities, reinforcing the vision of “Viksit Manipur” within the broader goal of “Viksit Bharat.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday reiterated the Union government’s commitment to the all-round development of Manipur, declaring that “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) will be reinforced with “Viksit Manipur.” Speaking from the historic Kangla Fort in Imphal, he inaugurated 17 major infrastructure projects worth over ₹1,200 crore and underlined the importance of unity and inclusive growth for the state’s progress.
The Prime Minister acknowledged that any form of violence in Manipur was unfortunate, especially in a state with such a rich history of fighting against injustice. Without directly referring to recent tensions between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, Modi emphasized the need for bridging gaps between the valley and hill regions. “To overcome the situation, united efforts are very important to take forward Manipur’s development and prosperity,” he said.
New Era of Growth Since 2014
Highlighting the progress of the last decade, Modi noted that a new era of development had already begun in Manipur over the past 11 years, compared to limited growth before 2014. He credited central initiatives for bringing visible change in infrastructure, connectivity, and opportunities.
Among the newly inaugurated projects was the Civil Secretariat at Mantripukhri in Imphal West district. Modi said this new administrative hub would ensure improved services for citizens. He also virtually inaugurated state Bhavans in New Delhi and Kolkata, built at a cost of ₹206 crore, to support the people of Manipur traveling to these cities for work, study, and official purposes.
Boost to Infrastructure and Employment
The 17 projects unveiled include the New Police Headquarters, a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) building at Mantripukhri, flood control initiatives, and the development of the Western River Front of the Imphal River under Phase-II.
The Prime Minister also inaugurated the construction of a four-lane bridge over the Irang River on the Imphal-Jiribam National Highway-38 in Noney district and an Eklavya Model Residential School at Tokpa village, Churachandpur district.
According to Modi, these initiatives would not only strengthen the state’s infrastructure but also create new employment opportunities. He assured that the Centre remained sensitive to every issue facing Manipur, particularly its chronic flood problems.
Empowering Women Through Ima Markets
A highlight of the announcements was the inauguration of four Ima Markets, the iconic all-women-run marketplaces of Manipur, at Tengnoupal, Noney, Pallel, and Moirang. “Women are frontrunners in Manipur and in the country,” Modi said, stressing that these markets would boost women’s entrepreneurship and livelihoods. He also pointed out that upcoming GST reforms effective from September 22 would further benefit women and the common people of the state.
Honouring Manipur’s History and Culture
The Prime Minister paid homage to Manipur’s unique contributions to India’s freedom struggle. He recalled that it was at Moirang where the Indian National Army (INA), led by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, first hoisted the tricolour. He also highlighted the renaming of Mount Harriet in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to Mount Manipur in honour of the state’s freedom fighters.
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Modi further underscored that India’s culture and sports would be incomplete without Manipur. Acknowledging the achievements of Manipuri athletes on national and global platforms, he said that the establishment of the National Sports University in Manipur reflected the state’s role in making India a future sports powerhouse.
A Vision for United Development
The Prime Minister concluded by reaffirming that the Centre’s policies are aimed at inclusive growth for all communities. He urged the people of Manipur to come together in unity, leaving behind differences, to take the state on a path of peace, prosperity, and development. With the completion of these projects and more in the pipeline, he said, the journey toward “Viksit Manipur” would significantly contribute to India’s march toward “Viksit Bharat.”
