(Image source from: ANI)
A fresh beginning is approaching Manipur, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi confirmed when he visited the region on Saturday, marking his first trip since the ethnic clashes began in May 2023. "A beautiful area has been caught in violence. I spoke with individuals living in camps. After our conversation, I believe that a fresh hope is about to arrive in Manipur. To grow, we need peace," PM Modi stated while speaking to residents in Churachandpur. Since May 2023, the Meitei community, which predominantly inhabits the valleys, and the Kuki tribes, mainly located in several hill regions of Manipur, have been in conflict over various issues, including land ownership and political representation. The violence has claimed over 250 lives and displaced more than 50,000 people in different waves. The Prime Minister emphasized that the central government is working hard to "restore normalcy" in the state affected by the violence.
"In the span of 11 years, numerous conflicts in the North East have been resolved. People have opted for peace. Conversations have started. I urge you to progress along the path of peace and create a brighter future for your children. I assure you that I stand with you. The Indian Government stands with you. The administration is striving to restore normalcy. They are providing homes for those who have lost theirs. The government is addressing the worries of the people," the Prime Minister added. His address focused significantly on progress, mentioning a new airport in Imphal, new highways, improved rail and road connectivity, the Railways project linking Jiribam and Imphal, along with new medical colleges. "We are about to become the third-largest economy in the world very soon... There was a period when it took years for decisions made in Delhi to reach here. Now, Churachandpur and Manipur are advancing along with the rest of the country," stated PM Modi.
The Prime Minister shared that his government has initiated the building of permanent homes for the underprivileged across the nation, with Manipur also reaping the benefits. "Almost 60,000 homes have been constructed here, providing thousands of families with a dignified and secure life," he mentioned. "In recent years, over 150 million citizens have gained access to tap water. Until about 7-8 years back, only around 25-30 thousand homes in Manipur had piped water. Now, more than 350,000 homes in the region benefit from tap water..." PM Modi remarked.
