PM Modi Visits Manipur, Meets IDPs, Unveils Rs 7,300 Crore Projects

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Manipur on Saturday, marking his first trip to the state since ethnic violence erupted in May 2023, claiming over 260 lives and displacing thousands. Arriving in Imphal amidst heavy rainfall, Modi traveled by road to Churachandpur, a Kuki-dominated region, after weather conditions altered his initial plan to fly from Aizawl, Mizoram.

In Churachandpur, at the Peace Ground, the Prime Minister met with internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by the ethnic clashes between the Kuki Zo and Meitei communities. Over 60,000 people, including nearly 40,000 Kuki Zo and 20,000 Meiteis, have been displaced, with many living in relief camps under challenging conditions, lacking privacy and income sources. Modi listened to their concerns and reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to restoring peace and normalcy in Manipur. The government has introduced skill development programs, such as candle and incense making, to support the IDPs’ livelihoods.

During his visit, Modi laid the foundation stones for development projects worth Rs 7,300 crore in Churachandpur. Later, he returned to Imphal to inaugurate projects valued at over Rs 1,200 crore. Security was tightened across the state, with state and central forces deployed around key venues, including the 237-acre Kangla Fort in Imphal and the Peace Ground in Churachandpur, despite heavy rain causing waterlogging in parts of the fort.

The visit follows criticism from opposition parties for the Prime Minister’s absence from Manipur since the violence began, which has left thousands homeless and the state deeply divided.

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