'Peace is paramount for development': PM Modi in Manipur’s Churachandpur

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Saturday, made a highly symbolic visit to Churachandpur in Manipur, marking his first trip to the state in two years. Braving heavy rainfall, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for development projects worth over Rs 7,300 crore, spanning infrastructure, connectivity, and public welfare.

Addressing the gathering, PM Modi drew on Manipur’s very name to underline its significance in the Northeast’s growth story.  “There is ‘Mani’ in the name of Manipur. It is that ‘Mani’, which is going to make the entire Northeast shine in the future," he started his address with.

Manipur is a vital pillar of India's progress. Addressing a programme during the launch of development initiatives in Churachandpur. https://t.co/1JENvDXOoE

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— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 13, 2025

In a significant message, PM Modi described Manipur as “a land of hope and aspiration” and acknowledged the hardships caused by recent unrest.

“Unfortunately, violence had cast its shadow on this beautiful region. A short while ago, I met those affected who are living in relief camps. After meeting them, I can say with confidence that a new dawn of hope and trust is rising in Manipur,” he said.

Underscoring that peace is the bedrock of progress, the Prime Minister added, “For development to take root anywhere, peace is essential. In the past 11 years, many conflicts and disputes in the Northeast have been resolved.

"People have chosen the path of peace and given priority to development. We are satisfied that recently in the hills and valleys, negotiations have taken place for agreements with different groups," he stated.

He further noted, "These are part of the efforts of the Government of India in which work is being done to establish peace while giving importance to dialogue, respect, and mutual understanding. I would appeal to all organisations to move forward on the path of peace and fulfil their dreams. I am with you, the Government of India is with the people of Manipur."

Calling on armed groups to give up violence, PM Modi appealed, “I urge all outfits to embark on the path of peace to secure your children's future.” He acknowledged the pain of recent unrest but struck an optimistic note, remarking, “Violence was unfortunate. I spoke to displaced people and can say Manipur is looking towards a new dawn.”

Reiterating his earlier message, the Prime Minister said that “peace is paramount for development,” stressing that the Centre’s focus is on rebuilding trust, strengthening unity, and ensuring that the people of Manipur benefit from new opportunities.

#WATCH | Churachandpur, Manipur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "The land of Manipur is a land of hope and aspiration. Unfortunately, violence had cast its shadow on this beautiful region. A short while ago, I met those affected who are living in relief camps. After meeting… pic.twitter.com/JeVE14uxU5

— ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2025

PM Modi also hailed the indomitable spirit of the people of the Northeastern state, who had thronged the venue amid the adverse weather conditions. “The land of Manipur is the land of courage and bravery… I want to salute the passion of the people of Manipur. All of you came here despite the heavy rain. I want to thank you for your love,” he remarked.

Recounting the difficulties he faced reaching Churachandpur, Modi said his helicopter could not take off due to bad weather, forcing him to travel by road. But the journey, he noted, turned into a blessing. “Due to heavy rains, my helicopter could not come, so I decided to come via road. The scenes I saw on the road, I thank the Almighty that my helicopter did not work today. The way I saw the youth and elderly people of Manipur carrying Tiranga in their hands, I can never forget this moment in my life,” he added.

PM Modi met victims of ethnic violence in Churachandpur, marking his first visit to the state in two years since unrest broke out in 2023. His visit comes as the state continues to grapple with ethnic tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities, which have claimed more than 260 lives and displaced nearly 50,000 people since May last year.

At Churachandpur’s Peace Ground, he interacted with victims of the violence, including children from displaced families who lost their homes in the clashes. He was seen accepting a bouquet and a painting from the children, and wore a traditional feathered hat presented to him during the interaction.

Later in the day, he is scheduled to travel to the state capital, Imphal, where he will inaugurate projects valued at more than Rs 1,200 crore. These include the Civil Secretariat at Mantripukhri, the IT SEZ Building and New Police Headquarters at Mantripukhri, Manipur Bhawans in Delhi and Kolkata, and Ima Markets, unique all-women markets, in four districts.