Modi to interact with Manipur IDPs, launch Rs 8,500cr projects

Imphal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Manipur on Saturday, marking his first trip to the state since communal violence erupted in May 2023. The visit was confirmed by Manipur chief secretary Puneet Kumar Goel.Modi’s itinerary includes an initial stop in Churachandpur, where he will arrive from Aizawl at approximately 11:30 am. There, he will engage with internally displaced persons (IDPs) and lay foundation stones for various infrastructure projects at a public gathering at Peace Ground.Following this, the Prime Minister will travel to Kangla in Imphal, arriving around 2 pm. He will meet with IDPs from the valley areas and inaugurate several development projects both within and outside Manipur. Modi is also scheduled to address a public gathering during his visit.The projects for which foundation stones will be laid total Rs. 7,300 crore, while the projects being inaugurated are valued at Rs. 1,200 crore.Goel emphasized that these initiatives reflect the Prime Minister’s commitment to the development and welfare of Manipur. He urged the people of the state to welcome Modi and participate in the program in large numbers.Goel also acknowledged the efforts of Manipur’s residents in restoring peace and normalcy, highlighting the joint efforts of all stakeholders in bringing stability to the state. “Manipur is not just a border state, but a central pillar of India's Act East policy, a gateway to the Southeast Asia and a proud guardian of India’s diversity. Peace is not only the absence of violence, but also the presence of trust, harmony, and reconciliation. Thus, the visit of the Prime Minister to the state will pave the way for peace, normalcy, and accelerated growth in the state,” Goel said.In preparation for the visit, gates adorned with life-sized images of Narendra Modi have been erected along Tiddim Road to extend a grand welcome to the Prime Minister.