Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth over Rs 7,300 crore in Churachandpur, Manipur, aimed at boosting infrastructure, connectivity, and socio-economic progress in the state. Addressing a gathering at the event, PM Modi described Manipur as a land of courage and determination, emphasizing its rich culture and natural beauty as a jewel of the Northeast.
“Manipur’s vibrancy and diversity are a major strength of India. The projects inaugurated today, worth nearly Rs 7,000 crore, will enhance the lives of the people, particularly tribal communities in the hills,” PM Modi said, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support from the people of Manipur.
Highlighting connectivity as a critical challenge for the border state, the Prime Minister noted that since 2014, the government has significantly increased investments in rail and road infrastructure. “We have extended road connectivity to hundreds of villages, benefiting hill and tribal communities,” he said, adding that Rs 3,700 crore has been spent on National Highways in recent years, with new projects worth Rs 8,700 crore underway.
PM Modi announced that the Jiribam-Imphal railway line, with an investment of Rs 22,000 crore, will soon connect Manipur’s capital to the national rail network. He also highlighted the Rs 400-crore Imphal Airport and the launch of helicopter services to enhance air connectivity, creating new opportunities for the youth.
Emphasizing inclusive development, the Prime Minister said, “India is on track to become the world’s third-largest economy, and we are ensuring that every corner, including Manipur, benefits.” He noted that nearly 60,000 pucca houses have been built for the poor in Manipur, over one lakh families have received free electricity connections, and more than 3.5 lakh households now have access to piped water under the ‘Har Ghar Nal Se Jal’ scheme.
In healthcare, PM Modi highlighted the establishment of a medical college in Churachandpur, which is training new doctors and improving services. “For decades after independence, hill regions lacked such facilities. Under the PM-DIVINE scheme, we are developing modern health services in five hill districts,” he said, adding that nearly 2.5 lakh patients in Manipur have availed free treatment worth Rs 350 crore under the Ayushman Bharat scheme.
Addressing recent challenges in Manipur, the Prime Minister expressed optimism about restoring peace, stating, “A new dawn of hope and trust is rising in Manipur.” He appealed to all groups to embrace dialogue and peace, assuring that the Government of India stands with the state. To support displaced families, PM Modi announced a Rs 3,000-crore special package, including Rs 500 crore for rehabilitation and 7,000 new houses.
For tribal development, the Prime Minister highlighted the Dharati Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, which is driving progress in over 500 villages in Manipur. Additionally, 18 Eklavya Model Residential Schools are being built to enhance educational opportunities in tribal areas.
PM Modi also underscored efforts to empower women, with the construction of working women’s hostels across Manipur. “We are working to make Manipur a symbol of peace, prosperity, and progress,” he affirmed, assuring continued support to the state government.
The projects include urban road and drainage improvements worth over Rs 3,600 crore, five National Highway projects worth more than Rs 2,500 crore, the Manipur Infotech Development (MIND) project, and working women’s hostels at nine locations.
Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and other dignitaries attended the event.