SENAPATI: In what could be termed a significant effort to restore normalcy in the state, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh made his maiden visit to Senapati District via Kangpokpi after a gap of almost three years since 3rd May 2023, following his assumption of office. He attended a reception ceremony organised by the Senapati District Frontal Organisations. During the reception, he was accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho and MLAs Awangbow Newmai, Tongbram Robindro Singh, and J. Kumo Sha.

The gathering began with a solemn prayer led by Fr. Dr. William Nepuni, Principal of St. Xavier College, Maram Khunou, to honour the two young lives lost in the recent Tronglaobi blast in Bishnupur District. A one-minute silence was observed in memory of the two children, initiated by Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho.

Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh hailed the civil society organisations of Senapati, Mao, and Kangpokpi for their unwavering support for the Government’s initiatives to restore peace and normalcy after the state was severely affected by unprecedented conflict. He stated that his visit to Senapati by road was made possible only due to their support and cooperation.

The Chief Minister received a warm welcome from the people of Senapati District, led by the Naga People’s Organisation, Senapati District Women’s Association, Senapati District Students’ Association, other civil society organisations, and tribal representatives at the Multipurpose Hall in the district headquarters.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasised the need for balanced and inclusive development across the state, stating that Manipur cannot progress unless all districts develop alongside the capital city, Imphal. He said that equal development and higher per capita income across the state would foster mutual understanding and harmony among communities.

“The territorial integrity of Manipur has been safeguarded by the 36 different communities inhabiting the state since time immemorial. Thus, Manipur is considered a Mini India,” he added.

“First we are Indian, and then we are Manipuri,” he said, urging everyone to work together to take the state to greater heights of development.

The Chief Minister recalled the vision of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who believed that India cannot develop unless the North East develops. He noted that the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) was established during Vajpayee’s tenure.

Responding to a memorandum submitted by the Naga People’s Organisation for establishing a medical college in the district, the Chief Minister stated that the matter would be placed for discussion in the next State Cabinet meeting.

On improving the sewerage system, he directed Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, who holds the Public Health Engineering portfolio, to prepare a DPR.

Regarding the relocation of the Senapati Police Station due to congestion concerns, he stated that the matter would be examined and necessary action taken.

On the proposal for development of the Barak Festival site, he said consultations would be held with the Tourism Department and stakeholders to finalise the design.

As part of the reception, the Chief Minister inaugurated:

 A multi-level parking facility and inter-state & district agricultural and economic transportation hub at Senapati Bazar

 10 Multi-Purpose Centres (MPCs) under PM-JANMAN in PVTG areas of the Maram tribe (Naojai, Khabaduikung, Sadim Rangalong, Maram Khongnem/Khongnem, Ngatan, Taklung, Sangkumei, Sangkunglung, Willong Khunou, and Kamalung)

 PHSC Building at Pudanamei

 3D Digital Dental Laboratory under PM-DeVine

He also laid foundation stones for:

 69 Anganwadi Centre buildings

 Flood lighting at Senapati Public Turf Ground

 Additional classrooms in 15 ADC schools

 30 toilets, 22 water reservoirs, 10 community halls

 5 wayside amenities

 Solid waste management infrastructure at 14 locations/villages

Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, in his address, commended the residents of Senapati—comprising the Mao, Maram, Poumai, Thangal, and Zeliangrong tribes—for their exemplary role as peace-loving communities.

The reception featured a folk song by Mom’s In Touch and special performances by local artists.

The programme was also attended by senior civil and police officials, district administration officials, civil society organisations, village chairmen and secretaries, teachers, and students.