Imphal, Oct 15 Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh on Thursday said the resumption of free movement along NH-2 has boosted the state’s economy, which was severely affected by the crisis that erupted in May 2023.
Singh made the remarks while attending the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan at Tadubi local ground in Senapati district.
Addressing the gathering, Singh said he had personally decided to attend the programme at Tadubi following the demise of former MLA N Kayisii in 2025.
He said the crisis that erupted on May 3, 2023, had severely affected the state’s economy, resulting in an estimated revenue loss of around Rs 1,200 crore in GST collections between 2023 and 2026.
Singh said bandhs and blockades had adversely affected daily-wage earners and students across the state, adding that differences among communities could be resolved through dialogue.
He also lauded the people of Maram, Tadubi and Mao in Senapati district for their cooperation in restoring free movement along NH-2, which connects Imphal to Guwahati via Dimapur.
Public transport services along the highway in Manipur resumed on August 21.
Singh said all communities in the state must work collectively towards achieving a common goal.
Speaking about development initiatives, the chief minister said his government had earmarked around Rs 10 crore in the budget for each Assembly constituency for the construction of inter-village roads (IVRs).
He said a medical college had been established in Churachandpur district during the previous term of the government to ensure equitable development across the hill districts, adding that another medical college would be established in Senapati district.
Expressing concern over the growing reluctance among Meiteis, Nagas and Kukis to identify themselves as Manipuris, Singh urged people to work towards peace and harmony.
He said people must first identify themselves as Indians and, second, as Manipuris.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of transforming the country, Singh said India was the world’s 11th-largest economy before Modi assumed office.
He added that India had since risen to become the world’s fourth-largest economy.
Singh also said the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan was being organised across the country to mark Modi’s 25 years of public service and carry forward the spirit of public service and good governance.
(PTI News)
