Manipur Highway Reopening Drives Economic Recovery

Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh declared on October 15 that reopening National Highway 2 revitalized the state economy. The artery connecting Imphal to Guwahati via Dimapur resumed public transport on August 21. It ended months of isolation. The crisis starting May 3, 2023, drained the state coffers. Officials estimate a massive ₹1,200 crore loss in GST collections between 2023 and 2026. Constant blockades and bandhs hammered daily earners and students alike.

Singh praised residents from Maram, Tadubi, and Mao for clearing the path. He spoke at the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan at Tadubi local ground in Senapati district, an event held in memory of former MLA N Kayisii who died in 2025. The Chief Minister pushed for unity among Meiteis, Nagas, and Kukis. He said, "People should first identify themselves as Indians and, secondly, as Manipuris." He maintains that dialogue remains the only fix for communal divides.

The state government now shifts focus to infrastructure. Officials set aside ₹10 crore per Assembly constituency for inter-village roads. Plans are also underway to build a medical college in Senapati. This follows a similar project in Churachandpur. Singh tied these goals to the national trajectory under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, claiming India climbed from the 11th to the fourth largest economy during his tenure.