In this screengrab from a video posted on Sept. 13, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses a rally in Churachandpur, Manipur. Photo: @NarendraModi via PTI Photo
Urging various outfits to shun violence, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (September 13, 2025) asserted that his government was with the people of Manipur and wanted to make the state a symbol of peace and prosperity.
Addressing a public meeting in Kuki-dominated Churachandpur district during his first visit to the State after ethnic violence broke out in May 2023, Mr. Modi said the Centre’s continuous efforts towards peace led to talks between the two warring sides.
“It is unfortunate that violence happened here. Today, I want to promise you that the Government of India is with you and I am with you,” he said.
“I would appeal to all groups and organisations to choose the path of peace,” he added.
Mr. Modi said peace is paramount for development, and the Centre is committed to achieving it.
He said the Centre has increased budget allocation for railway and road connectivity projects in the state.
“Since 2014, I have given special stress on improving connectivity in Manipur,” he said.
“India will soon become the world’s third-largest economy, and I want to ensure that the fruits of development reach every corner of the country,” he added.
Hailing Manipur as a land of courage and valour, the PM said he can never forget the love he received on his way to Churachandpur from Imphal by road.
“I spoke to the displaced people, and I can say that Manipur is looking towards a new dawn. People have chosen the path of peace,” he said.
Mr. Modi said the projects he unveiled here will improve people’s lives, in terms of infrastructure and healthcare.
Projects worth ₹7,300 crore unveiled
“Just a short while ago, from this very platform, projects worth over ₹7,300 crore were unveiled. These projects will further improve the lives of the people of Manipur, especially the tribal communities living in the Hills,” he said.
Among these projects were Manipur urban roads, drainage and asset management improvement initiative worth ₹3,647 crore and Manipur Infotech Development (MIND) project worth ₹550 crore, an official statement said.
He also laid the foundation for nine working women’s hostels worth ₹142 crore, and super-speciality and healthcare facilities to be developed at ₹105 crore.
Modi laid the foundation stones for infrastructure development in and around Polo Ground at ₹30 crore, and the strengthening of facilities of 120 schools at a cost of ₹134 crore in all 16 districts.
Various projects pertaining to rural connectivity, education and tourism in parts of Manipur with a total value of ₹102 crore were also included on the list of initiatives for which the foundation stones were laid.
Construction of a multipurpose indoor stadium worth ₹36 crore at Khuman Lampak Sports Complex in Imphal, and upgradation of NH 102 A in Tengnoupal sections worth ₹502 crore, were also on the list.
Published – September 13, 2025 02:20 pm IST
