Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated multiple development projects worth over Rs 1,200 crore at Imphal in Manipur today. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister stated that projects worth thousands of crores have been inaugurated and launched today for the development of Manipur. He remarked that these projects will enhance the ease of living for the people and strengthen the infrastructure in the region. The Prime Minister said that new employment opportunities will be created for the youth of Manipur and for the sons and daughters of the state.

The Prime Minister stated that among the projects launched today, two are particularly significant, highlighting the ‘Manipur Urban Roads Project,’ with an investment of over ₹3,600 crore and ‘Manipur Infotech Development Project,’ with an investment exceeding ₹500 crore. Shri Modi remarked that these projects will strengthen road infrastructure in Imphal and infuse new energy into Manipur’s bright future. He extended his congratulations and best wishes to the people of Manipur for all the newly launched projects.

Highlighting that after independence, major cities in the western and southern parts of the country witnessed development and became hubs of aspiration, Shri Modi remarked that youth in those regions received new opportunities. “The 21st century belongs to the East and the North East”, he added. The Prime Minister stated that the Government of India has consistently prioritized the development of Manipur, highlighting that as a result, Manipur’s growth rate has been steadily increasing. He noted that before 2014, Manipur’s growth rate was less than one percent. He remarked that today, Manipur is progressing many times faster than before. Shri Modi stated that a new phase of infrastructure development has begun in Manipur. He expressed satisfaction that the pace of road construction and National Highway development in the state has increased manifold. He added that rapid work is underway to extend road connectivity to every village.

Underlining that Imphal is a city of possibilities, Shri Modi remarked that he envisions Imphal as one of the developed cities of India that will fulfill the dreams of the youth and accelerate the nation’s progress. He informed that under this vision, several projects have been completed in Imphal under the Smart City Mission. He added that many other projects worth hundreds of crores are also progressing rapidly.

The Prime Minister remarked that whether it is Imphal or other regions of Manipur, new opportunities are emerging for startups and technology-based industries. He added that the IT Special Economic Zone will further strengthen these possibilities and the first building of this zone has already been completed. Shri Modi noted that the demand for a new Civil Secretariat building in Manipur had been longstanding. He announced that this building is now ready and the new facility will reinforce the spirit of ‘Nagarik Devobhava’ in governance.

Noting that many people from Manipur frequently travel to Kolkata and Delhi, Shri Modi informed that to ensure affordable accommodation in these cities, Manipur Bhavans have been constructed in both locations. He remarked that these facilities will greatly support the daughters of Manipur. He added that when children are safe and secure there, it will ease the concerns of parents back home.

Emphasising that the government is working with full sensitivity to reduce the hardships faced by the people, Shri Modi acknowledged that many parts of Manipur suffer from severe flood-related challenges. He added that the government is actively working on multiple projects to mitigate this issue.

Underscoring that Manipur is a state where mothers and sisters are at the forefront of the economy, the Prime Minister highlighted the tradition of Ima Keithel as a powerful testament to this fact. He remarked that he considers women empowerment to be a central pillar of India’s development and of the vision for an Atmanirbhar Bharat. He stated that this inspiration is clearly visible in Manipur. Shri Modi said that after the formation of the current government, special haat bazaars—known as Ima Markets—were initiated for women. He expressed happiness that four new Ima Markets have been inaugurated today and these markets will greatly support the women of Manipur.

Emphasising that making life easier for every citizen is the government’s goal, the Prime Minister remarked that Manipur has witnessed the difficult days when transporting goods to the region was a major challenge. He noted that everyday items were once beyond the reach of ordinary families. Shri Modi stressed that in recent years, our government has helped Manipur overcome those old hardships. He announced a new development, stating that our government wants to increase savings and make life more convenient for the people. Highlighting that their government has significantly reduced GST, the Prime Minister stated that this will bring double benefits to the people of Manipur. He explained that many daily-use items—such as soap, shampoo, hair oil, clothes, and footwear—will now become more affordable. He added that prices of cement and other construction materials will also come down. Shri Modi informed that GST has been substantially reduced on hotels and food services as well. He remarked that this will benefit guest house owners, taxi operators, and roadside eateries, adding that this move will also help boost tourism in the region.

“Manipur possesses a rich heritage that spans thousands of years. The cultural roots of the region are deep and strong. Manipur is the crown jewel adorning the crest of Mother India”, exclaimed the Prime Minister. He emphasized the need to continuously strengthen Manipur’s developmental image. Shri Modi stated that any form of violence in Manipur is unfortunate and such violence is a grave injustice to both our ancestors and future generations. He stressed the importance of consistently advancing Manipur on the path of peace and development. The Prime Minister highlighted Manipur’s inspiring contribution to India’s freedom struggle and national defence. He recalled that it was on Manipur’s soil where the Indian National Army first hoisted India’s own flag. He quoted Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, who referred to Manipur as the gateway to India’s independence and paid tribute to the many brave martyrs from this land. Shri Modi stated that the government draws inspiration from every great personality of Manipur. Mentioning a major step taken by the government—renaming Mount Harriet in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to Mount Manipur, Shri Modi affirmed that this is a national tribute to the freedom fighters of Manipur.

Acknowledging that even today, many sons and daughters of Manipur are serving across different parts of the country in the defence of Mother India, the Prime Minister remarked that during Operation Sindoor, the world witnessed the strength of the Indian Armed Forces. He stated that the Indian soldiers inflicted such decisive blows that the Pakistani army was left overwhelmed. Shri Modi highlighted that Manipur’s brave sons and daughters played a vital role in India’s success during the operation. He paid tribute to one such valiant soldier, Shaheed Deepak Chingkham, and saluted his courage. He affirmed that Deepak Chingkham’s sacrifice during Operation Sindoor will always be remembered by the nation.

Recalling his visit to Manipur in 2014 and a statement he had made then, Shri Modi mentioned that he had said that without Manipuri culture, Indian culture is incomplete and without the athletes of Manipur, Indian sports remain incomplete. He stated that the youth of Manipur dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to upholding the pride of the national flag. He emphasized that this identity must not be overshadowed by the dark shadow of violence.

“As India emerges as a global sports powerhouse, the responsibility of Manipur’s youth has increased further. This is why the Government of India chose Manipur for the country’s first National Sports University”, said the PM. He added that under the Khelo India Scheme and Olympic Podium Schemes, many athletes from Manipur are being encouraged and supported with modern sports infrastructure being developed in Manipur for the youth. Shri Modi highlighted that to promote polo, the Marjing Polo Complex has been established, featuring the world’s tallest polo statue. He added that an Olympian Park has also been built to honour the Olympians from the region. Pointing out that the government recently announced the National Sports Policy—Khelo India Niti, the Prime Minister emphasized that this will greatly benefit the youth of Manipur in the coming years.

“Our government is continuously working to ensure peace and stability in Manipur”, exclaimed the PM, emphasising that the interests of the people must be safeguarded and that those forced to live in camps should be able to return to normal life. He informed that 7,000 new houses have been approved for displaced families. Shri Modi announced that the Central Government has recently declared a special package of approximately ₹3,000 crore for Manipur. He added that over ₹500 crore has been allocated specifically to assist displaced individuals. The PM further remarked that helping those affected by violence return to a normal life is a top priority for the government. He stated that the newly constructed headquarters for Manipur Police will also play a vital role in supporting this effort.

The Prime Minister stated that from the soil of Manipur, he wishes to address his friends in Nepal. He remarked that Nepal, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, is a close friend and trusted partner of India. Emphasizing that both nations are bound by shared history, faith, and a collective journey forward, the Prime Minister extended heartfelt congratulations, on behalf of 140 crore Indians, to Smt. Sushila Ji on assuming office as the Prime Minister of Nepal’s interim government. He expressed confidence that she will pave the way for peace, stability, and prosperity in Nepal. Shri Modi highlighted that Smt. Sushila Ji’s appointment as Nepal’s first woman Prime Minister is a remarkable example of women empowerment. He appreciated every individual in Nepal who upheld democratic values even in a climate of instability.

Highlighting a notable aspect of recent developments in Nepal that has not received much attention, Shri Modi stated that over the past two to three days, young men and women in Nepal have been seen diligently cleaning and painting the streets with a spirit of dedication and purity. He remarked that he has also seen their images circulating on social media. The Prime Minister described their positive mindset and constructive actions as not only inspiring but also a clear indication of Nepal’s resurgence. He extended his best wishes to Nepal for a bright and prosperous future.

“In the 21st century, India is moving forward with a singular goal—the goal of a developed India and achieving this goal requires the development of Manipur”, stated the PM underlining that Manipur is full of limitless possibilities. He stated that it is the collective duty of all to remain firmly on the path of development. The Prime Minister affirmed that Manipur lacks no capability, stressing the need to continuously strengthen the path of dialogue and build a strong bridge of harmony between the hills and the valley. The Prime Minister concluded by expressing confidence that Manipur will become a powerful centre of India’s growth. He once again extended his heartfelt congratulations to all for the development projects.

Governor of Manipur, Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla was present among other dignitaries at the event.

Background

Prime Minister inaugurated multiple development projects worth more than Rs 1,200 crore at Imphal. They include the Civil Secretariat at Mantripukhri; IT SEZ Building and New Police Headquarters at Mantripukhri; Manipur Bhawans at Delhi and Kolkata; and Ima Markets, unique all women's market, in 4 districts.

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MJPS/SR