Imphal, Sep 26 Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh on Saturday said the only way to build a developed state and a strong economy was by restoring peace.
Speaking at a college function at Maram in Senapati district, Singh said peace and economic development are inter-connected.
“The only way to build a developed Manipur and a strong economy is by restoring peace,” Singh said.
“How can we develop if the state’s economy remains affected?” he told the gathering.
Highlighting the economic impact of the ethnic conflict, Singh said the state suffered a loss of around Rs 1,300 crore in GST collection in the last three years.
He said the economic disruption caused by the crisis has affected development and the livelihoods of people, especially those living below the poverty line.
Singh said the strength of Manipur lies in its unity and that if people remain divided, the collective strength of the state will become weak.
He had previously emphasised that development can take place only when all communities progress together.
Singh also reiterated that Manipur comprises various communities and that “misunderstanding and communication gap” among communities have unfortunately contributed to various issues.
Emphasising the importance of environmental conservation, Singh also urged people to protect the state’s natural resources and forests.
“Whenever a tree is cut, two or three saplings should be planted in its place,” he said, stressing that development must go hand-in-hand with environmental responsibility.
He said a stadium will be constructed in the Tadubi assembly constituency area in the district.
At least 306 people have been killed, and 49 remained missing, while thousands were rendered homeless in ethnic violence that broke out in May 2023 between Imphal Valley-based Meiteis and adjoining hills-based Kukis.
(PTI News)
