Photo Courtesy: nenow
Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh is pushing a dual agenda: clearing the state of drugs and securing lasting peace. He claims the state is on track to become a gateway to Southeast Asia, with a railway network reaching Imphal by December 2028. This infrastructure will bolster trade and economic opportunities, but the Chief Minister maintains that development depends on a sober, disciplined younger generation.
Speaking at Manipur University, Khemchand joined the nationwide launch of the Nasha Mukta Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyaan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the youth virtually, urging them to stay physically and mentally sharp. The Chief Minister later attended the inauguration of the 10 Crores Addiction-Free Pledge Mega Campaign at Pheidinga. This event, organized by the Brahma Kumaris under the Nasha Mukta Bharat Abhiyaan and Mission SPANDAN, saw the launch of a campaign voucher and an official pledge for a drug-free India.
Khemchand expressed alarm at organized narcotics networks targeting young people. He shared his own history, noting that he consciously avoided intoxicants to dedicate his life to public service. "The vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 can only be realised with a healthy, disciplined and drug-free youth," he said. He promised the government would intensify the fight against drug trafficking.
The Chief Minister also addressed the state's recent history of violence. He claims residents from the Kuki, Meitei, Hmar, and Paite communities all want to return home and live together. He visited areas like Jiribam and Litan, where he witnessed members of different communities sharing meals. He blames ongoing disruptions on vested interests. He insists these actors do not represent any single community and only profit from conflict.
Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam joined the event alongside medical and social leaders, including Dr. Jugindro Sorokhaibam, Dr. R.K. Lenin Singh, Ima Puinabati Konsam, and Dr. N. Irabanta Singh. During the ceremony, Khemchand presented the Universal Peace Ambassador Award to Rajyogini BK Nilima for her spiritual and social work. The government maintains that it will ensure justice for past violence while working to bridge community distrust.
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