Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated multiple development projects worth over Rs 12 billion in Imphal, Manipur, today. Addressing the gathering, he stated that these initiatives aim to enhance living standards, strengthen infrastructure, and create new employment opportunities for the youth of the state.Among the projects highlighted were the Manipur Urban Roads Project, with an investment exceeding Rs 36 billion, and the Manipur Infotech Development Project, valued at over Rs 5 billion. Shri Modi noted that these projects will modernise road infrastructure and energise Manipur’s growth trajectory.The Prime Minister emphasised that the 21st century belongs to India’s East and North East regions and stressed that consistent governmental focus has helped increase Manipur’s growth rate significantly since 2014. He highlighted ongoing efforts to extend road connectivity to every village and speed up National Highway development.Under the Smart City Mission, several projects in Imphal have been completed, with more worth billions of rupees progressing rapidly. Shri Modi also noted the IT Special Economic Zone, whose first building is already complete, and the new Civil Secretariat building, which will reinforce the principle of ‘Nagarik Devobhava’ in governance.To support residents travelling to Kolkata and Delhi, Manipur Bhavans have been established in both cities, providing affordable accommodation and enhancing the safety and security of citizens.Shri Modi acknowledged ongoing flood challenges in the state and highlighted government projects aimed at mitigating such issues. He also praised the economic role of women in Manipur, citing the tradition of Ima Keithel markets, and inaugurated four new markets to empower women entrepreneurs.The Prime Minister further detailed the government’s measures to reduce everyday costs, including significant GST reductions on essential goods, construction materials, hotels, and food services, benefiting households, businesses, and tourism in the state.Shri Modi paid tribute to Manipur’s rich cultural heritage and its historical contributions to India’s freedom struggle and national defence, mentioning the renaming of Mount Harriet in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to Mount Manipur as a national homage. He also honoured soldiers from the state, including Shaheed Deepak Chingkham, who played a key role in Operation Sindoor.Highlighting Manipur’s sports achievements, the Prime Minister noted the establishment of the National Sports University, the Marjing Polo Complex, and the Olympian Park, alongside schemes under Khelo India and the Olympic Podium initiatives to support local athletes.Shri Modi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to peace and rehabilitation, noting the approval of 7,000 new houses for displaced families and a special Rs 30 billion package for Manipur, with over Rs 5 billion allocated for displaced individuals. The newly constructed Manipur Police headquarters will further aid these efforts.Addressing Nepal, the Prime Minister congratulated Smt Sushila Ji on assuming office as Nepal’s interim Prime Minister, praising her leadership and women empowerment. He also commended Nepali youth for their civic engagement in recent days.Concluding his address, Shri Modi emphasised that Manipur has unlimited potential and reaffirmed the collective duty to maintain dialogue and harmony between the hills and valleys. He expressed confidence that Manipur will become a powerful centre of India’s growth.Governor of Manipur, Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla, was present alongside other dignitaries.