Imphal: Manipur needs more than valley-based peace slogans. Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh wants direct engagement with the hill people to stop the ongoing conflict. He spoke at the Seva Jyoti Yatra held at Imphal's historic Kangla Fort. The valley covers only eight per cent of the state, yet it remains the sole focus of current peace efforts. Khemchand pointed to history, noting that past kings kept frequent contact with hill residents.
The state economy is hurting. Disruption from agitations, bandhs, and blockades is bleeding the treasury dry. Losses hit 20 to 25 crore rupees every single day. Between 2023 and 2026, the state missed out on more than 1,200 crore rupees in GST revenue. "Unity was essential for restoring peace, protecting the integrity of the State and collectively working towards the vision of a Viksit Bharat and a Viksit Manipur," the Chief Minister said.
He challenged the 36 communities in Manipur to trade blockades for dialogue. Peace serves the broader goal of hitting national development targets by 2047. Khemchand credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi with infrastructure gains, including the railway line to Khongsang in Tamenglong district and the new Churachandpur Medical College. Potable water access has jumped from six per cent to 80 per cent, according to the Chief Minister. Work continues on 240 km of border fencing costing 3,223 crore rupees. Crews finished 55 km, with piers ready for another 80 km.
The Seva Jyoti Yatra marked 25 years of public service by Prime Minister Modi. Khemchand led officials on a foot march to the Northern Gate of Kangla. Rajya Sabha MP Adhikarimayum Sharda Devi and Tourism Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh joined the event. They urged public support for government peace initiatives. Officials, staff, and citizens attended the ceremony.
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