President Murmu Reassures Manipur, Says Centre's Top Priority Is Addressing People’s Concerns; Announces ₹1,387 Crore Projects
Imphal witnessed a significant message of assurance and development on Thursday as President Droupadi Murmu addressed a civic reception at the City Convention Centre, reaffirming that the Government of India stands firmly with every affected family in Manipur. Calling the state a land of resilience and cultural brilliance, she underscored that addressing the fears, concerns, and hardships of its people remains the Centre’s highest priority.
Her remarks came at a crucial time for a state that has seen prolonged ethnic unrest and has been under President’s Rule since February 13. Speaking to a packed audience, President Murmu acknowledged the “unfortunate violence” that has affected communities for months and said the Union government is fully aware of the emotional, social, and economic challenges endured by families across districts. She emphasised the Centre’s firm commitment to restoring harmony, ensuring security, and advancing inclusive development.
During the ceremony, the President laid the foundation stones for 14 major projects valued at ₹1,180 crore and inaugurated 12 completed initiatives worth ₹207 crore. Together, the projects represent a substantial investment of ₹1,387 crore. These include new facilities in education, sports, health, agriculture, tribal development, renewable energy, rural infrastructure, community services, and urban development. Additional projects focus on modernising Ima Markets, expanding handloom and handicraft clusters, improving guest houses and training facilities, strengthening security infrastructure, and upgrading major roads and public service corridors.
President Murmu said these initiatives will generate employment, expand economic activity, and create a framework where development reaches every corner—from the foothills to remote tribal settlements. She noted that connectivity improvements, better educational institutions, healthcare expansion, and stronger rural infrastructure are essential to building a modern and inclusive Manipur capable of accelerating its long-term growth.
Highlighting the historical and cultural significance of Manipur, she called the state a symbol of courage, artistic depth, sporting excellence, and national pride. She praised the people for their contributions to the armed forces, culture, public service, and athletics, recalling that Manipur has long been regarded as India’s gateway to Southeast Asia because of its strategic location and vibrant cultural links.
In her address, the President paid special tribute to Manipuri women, describing them as a force of strength and leadership. She referred to the legendary Nupi Lal movements of 1904 and 1939, where women of Manipur led mass agitations against colonial and feudal exploitation. She said these uprisings continue to inspire the entire nation and reaffirm the state’s legacy of empowered women.
Before the civic reception, President Murmu visited the historic Imphal Polo Ground—believed to be one of the oldest polo grounds in the world—to witness a polo exhibition match. She also received a ceremonial welcome at Bir Tikendrajit Airport, where Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and senior officials greeted her with full honours. Her arrival marks her first visit to Manipur since assuming office.
Security has been significantly strengthened in Imphal and the Senapati district ahead of the presidential visit. Multiple agencies, including administrative, police, and paramilitary units, are coordinating closely to ensure smooth execution of events. The Kuki-Zo Council has publicly welcomed her visit, noting that it comes at a critical moment for the state’s healing and reconciliation.
On Friday, President Murmu is scheduled to visit the Nupi Lal Memorial Complex to pay homage to the women warriors of Manipur. The memorial marks two pivotal women-led movements that reshaped political consciousness in the early 20th century. Later in the day, she will address a large public meeting in Senapati district and inaugurate additional development projects aimed at strengthening tribal communities and remote regions.
In her concluding message, the President urged the people of Manipur to uphold unity and continue supporting efforts aimed at rebuilding trust and advancing peace. She expressed confidence that both hill and valley communities will walk together with renewed harmony and help shape a prosperous and secure future for Manipur.
Our Thoughts
President Murmu’s visit arrives at a defining moment for Manipur, a state still navigating the long shadows of violence and disruption. Her message blends reassurance with action—signalling that the Centre intends not only to respond but to rebuild. The rollout of over ₹1,387 crore in development projects reflects a clear push to strengthen infrastructure, revive economic momentum, and bridge cracks widened by conflict. Manipur’s resilience has never been in question, but restoring harmony requires trust, representation, and visible change on the ground. By invoking the spirit of Nupi Lal and acknowledging the distinct legacy of hill and valley communities, the President struck a tone of unity that Manipur urgently needs. Only sustained peace will determine whether these assurances evolve into lasting transformation, but her visit sets an important foundation—symbolically and structurally—for the state’s path forward.