Development Push in Manipur – PM Modi Inaugurates Projects Worth ₹1,200 Crore

Development Push in Manipur Latest News

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of multiple development projects worth over ₹1,200 crore in Imphal, Manipur. 
• These initiatives focus on infrastructure, digital connectivity, women empowerment, sports, governance, and disaster resilience, highlighting the government’s commitment to inclusive growth in the North-East.
• His visit to Manipur’s capital Imphal, is the first since the onset of ethnic violence in the state (in May 2023).
• He urged both the Meitei-dominated valley and the Kuki-dominated hill districts to “build a strong bridge of harmony” and move forward on the path of peace and development.

Development Push in the North-East

• Mizoram connected to railways:
  • Before Manipur, PM visited Mizoram and inaugurated the 51.38-km Bairabi–Sairang railway line, connecting Aizawl (Mizoram’s capital) to the Indian Railways network for the first time.
  • With this, Aizawl becomes the fourth Northeastern capital (after Guwahati, Agartala, and Itanagar) linked to the railway grid.
  • Alongside, he laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development projects worth over ₹9,000 crore in Aizawl.
• Significance:
  • Act East Policy: Mizoram, sharing borders with Myanmar and Bangladesh, is crucial for India’s Act East Policy. Railway connectivity strengthens trade, transit, and people-to-people ties with Southeast Asia.
  • Economic integration: Boosts movement of goods and people, reducing transport costs. Facilitates export of local products (agriculture, bamboo, horticulture, handicrafts). Enhances tourism potential of Mizoram.
  • National integration: Makes Mizoram less isolated by physically linking it with the Indian heartland. Aizawl joins other connected state capitals in the Northeast, strengthening inclusivity in development.

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Key Announcements and Projects for the Manipur

• Infrastructure development:
  • Launch of Manipur Urban Roads Project (₹3,600 crore) to boost connectivity in Imphal.
  • Enhanced pace of National Highway and rural road construction, connecting villages.
  • Civil Secretariat and Police Headquarters inaugurated at Mantripukhri.
• Digital and IT growth:
  • Manipur Infotech Development Project (₹500 crore).
  • IT Special Economic Zone to encourage startups and tech industries.
• Smart city and urban development:
  • He informed that under this vision, several projects have been completed in Imphal, and many other projects are progressing rapidly.
  • Manipur Bhawans at Delhi and Kolkata for affordable accommodation, especially for women.
• Women empowerment:
  • Inauguration of 4 new Ima Markets (women-only markets).
  • Emphasis on Ima Keithel tradition as a symbol of women-led economy.
  • Women empowerment linked to Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
• Disaster management: Recognition of flood-related challenges; new projects underway for mitigation.
• Cultural and historical identity:
  • Manipur is described as the “crown jewel of India.”
  • Tribute to Indian National Army (INA) flag hoisting in Manipur and renaming of Mount Harriet as Mount Manipur.
  • Stress on peace, dialogue, and harmony between hills and valleys.
• Sports as a growth driver:
  • Establishment of National Sports University in Manipur.
  • Khelo India and Olympic Podium schemes supporting Manipuri athletes.
  • To promote polo, the Marjing Polo Complex has been established, featuring the world’s tallest polo statue. 
• Socio-economic relief:
  • Highlighting that their government has significantly reduced GST, the PM stated that this will bring double benefits to the people of Manipur.
  • 7,000 new houses have been approved for displaced families. 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.
• National security and defence contribution:
  • Tribute to Shaheed Deepak Chingkham (Operation Sindoor).
  • Recognition of Manipuri youth in armed forces and sports.

Significance for Manipur and North-East

• Shift from marginalisation to mainstream development.
• Manipur is positioned as a hub for connectivity, culture, sports, and IT.
• Promotes peace, stability, and women empowerment as foundations for inclusive growth.

Way Forward

• Peace and stability: Violence undermines Manipur’s historical legacy and development potential. Therefore, peace-building and dialogue are crucial.
• Balanced growth: Bridging divides between hills and valley is essential for long-term harmony.
• Women-centric economy: Strengthening Ima Markets and women-led initiatives will boost local entrepreneurship.
• Sports diplomacy and soft power: Leveraging Manipuri athletes’ contributions enhances India’s global sporting image.
• Integration with national growth: Projects reflect Act East Policy and aim to make Manipur a growth engine for the 21st-century North-East.

Source: IE  | PIB