Peace and harmony are foundation of development: Manipur CM

Imphal, July 27 (AHN) Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Monday, referring to the ethnic conflict that has persisted for nearly three years, said that lasting peace and harmony are the foundation of development and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to restoring normalcy in the state.

After inaugurating several development projects in Andro Assembly constituency, the Chief Minister said that the prolonged unrest has adversely affected inter-community relations, the education of the younger generation and the state’s economy.

Appealing to all communities in both the hills and the valley regions to extend their cooperation in restoring peace, he said he looks forward to rebuilding the Manipur that existed before May 3, 2023, when all 36 communities lived together in harmony.

The Chief Minister urged the people to collectively work towards bringing back that era of peace, unity and shared progress.

He inaugurated the newly constructed Ima Market (all-woman market) at Andro, along with two bridges over the Thoubal River in the presence of Thounaojam Shyamkumar, MLA, Andro Assembly constituency.

Speaking on the occasion, Khemchand Singh said that it was his second visit to Andro after assuming office under the new government on February 4, reflecting the government’s commitment towards the development of the constituency.

Describing Andro as the pride of Manipur, he said that the area is renowned for its natural fire, attracting researchers and visitors from different parts of the country and abroad.

The Chief Minister further remarked that Andro is one of the oldest settlements in Asia with immense historical and cultural significance, and therefore deserves focused attention for its preservation and development.

Announcing a major development initiative, Khemchand Singh said that the government would sanction Rs 10 crore for the construction and improvement of small inter-village roads in the constituency.

He also acknowledged the absence of an office for the Municipal Council in Andro and assured that the government would take necessary steps to construct a dedicated municipal office.

Speaking at the function, local MLA Shyamkumar said that development activities in the constituency had slowed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the conflict and other unforeseen challenges. However, with the formation of the new government, he expressed confidence that developmental works would regain momentum and accelerate in the coming years.

During the programme, various welfare associations, youth clubs and local organisations from Andro submitted memoranda to the Chief Minister seeking the construction and improvement of roads, establishment of a Municipal Council office, construction of retaining walls, appointment of primary school teachers and implementation of other developmental projects for the constituency.

Deputy Commissioner (Imphal East district) Lairenlakpam Nivedita, senior officials of the Planning Department, district administration, public representatives and a large number of residents also attended the function.