Prime Minister Lays Foundation for Rs 7,300 Crore Projects in Manipur, Calls for Peace and Progress

CHURACHANDPUR, MANIPUR. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth over Rs 7,300 crore in Churachandpur, Manipur. This is his first visit to the state since the ethnic violence began in 2023. The Prime Minister emphasized the government's commitment to peace, prosperity, and inclusive development in the region.

 

Addressing a large gathering, PM Modi praised Manipur as a land of courage and determination. He referred to it as a "jewel" that will enhance the brilliance of the entire North East. He mentioned that the new projects aim to improve the lives of the people, especially the tribal communities in the hills, by creating new facilities in health and education.

 

The Prime Minister highlighted the government's focus on better connectivity. He noted a significant increase in the budget for rail and road projects in Manipur since 2014. He announced that the Jiribam–Imphal railway line, costing Rs 22,000 crore, will soon connect the state capital to the national rail network.

 

PM Modi also talked about social initiatives. These include building nearly 60,000 houses for the poor under a nationwide program, providing free electricity to over one lakh families, and extending piped water connections to more than 3.5 lakh households in the state. He mentioned the establishment of a new medical college in Churachandpur and the benefits of the Ayushman Bharat scheme, which has offered free treatment to nearly 2.5 lakh patients in Manipur.

 

Regarding the recent violence in the state, the Prime Minister expressed optimism after meeting affected individuals in relief camps. He stated that a "new dawn of hope and trust is rising in Manipur." He announced a special package of about Rs 3,000 crore, which includes Rs 500 crore specifically for rehabilitation and support for building 7,000 new houses for displaced families.

 

The Prime Minister concluded his address by urging all organizations to pursue peace and reaffirmed the Central Government's strong support for the people and government of Manipur in their effort toward peace, prosperity, and progress.