Imphal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on his first visit to Manipur in two years, struck a tone of reconciliation and development, urging the people of the violence-scarred state to embrace peace and unity. Addressing a large gathering at Kangla Fort in Imphal, the Prime Minister called Manipur “the city of possibilities” and declared that “the 21st century belongs to the North-East.”
The visit marked by both symbolic gestures and major policy announcements comes against the backdrop of the 2023 ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities that left over 250 dead and displaced nearly 60,000 people. Many of those affected continue to live in makeshift camps, unable to return home due to lingering tensions.
PM Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for projects worth thousands of crores, including a new Civil Secretariat at Mantripukhri, an IT Special Economic Zone building, a modern Police Headquarters, and new Manipur Bhawans in Delhi and Kolkata.
“These projects will enhance the ease of living, strengthen infrastructure, and open fresh avenues of employment for Manipur’s youth,” he said, positioning development as the foundation for peace.
The Prime Minister did not shy away from recalling the scars of 2023. “Any violence in Manipur is unfortunate. It is an injustice to our ancestors and to the next generation. We have to take Manipur on the path of peace and development. We must draw inspiration from the sacrifices of Manipuri heroes in the freedom struggle. It was here, in Manipur, that the INA first unfurled the tricolour,” he said.
He stressed that reconciliation must replace division, and that harmony was essential for the state’s progress.
Modi highlighted ongoing government measures to rehabilitate displaced families. “May the lives of those forced to live in camps return to normalcy. For this, our government is continuously working. Seven thousand new houses have been approved for the displaced. In addition, the Centre has sanctioned a special package of nearly ₹3,000 crore for Manipur, including ₹500 crore specifically for rehabilitation,” he announced.
“This is our top priority: those who endured the heat of violence should be able to return to normal life at the earliest,” the Prime Minister added.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi addressed another public gathering in Kuki-majority Churachandpur, where he interacted with families still in relief camps. He assured them of the Centre’s unwavering support.
“I appeal to all groups to move forward on the path of peace to secure your children’s future. Today, I promise that I stand by your side. The Government of India stands with the people of Manipur,” Modi said, attempting to bridge divides by directly addressing both the valley and hill communities.
The Prime Minister’s words carried weight in a state where tensions have festered for decades, often stoked by disputes over land, public jobs, and political representation. Rights groups have long accused leaders of exploiting these divisions for political gain. By invoking both the pain of displacement and the promise of development, Modi sought to reassure Manipuris that reconciliation and progress can and must go hand in hand.
As he left Manipur, the central theme of his visit was clear: rebuilding trust among communities while ensuring that peace is anchored in tangible development.