Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Manipur on Saturday, marking his first visit to the state since the ethnic violence broke out in May 2023. During his visit, he launched multiple development projects worth over Rs 7,300 crore in Churachandpur. He also met with internally displaced persons in relief camps, signaling a commitment to inclusive and holistic growth.

The Prime Minister's Office had announced that Modi would visit five states—Mizoram, Manipur, Assam, West Bengal, and Bihar—from September 13 to 15 to inaugurate and launch projects totaling Rs 71,850 crore.

In Churachandpur, Modi laid the foundation stone for various infrastructure projects, including the Manipur Urban Roads, Drainage and Asset Management Improvement Project valued at more than Rs 3,600 crore. Other projects include five National Highway projects costing over Rs 2,500 crore, the Manipur Infotech Development (MIND) project, and Working Women's Hostels across nine locations. He also laid the foundation for nine working women's hostels worth Rs 142 crore, and super-speciality and healthcare facilities to be developed at Rs 105 crore.

Modi also laid the foundation stones for infrastructure development in and around Polo Ground at Rs 30 crore, and the strengthening of facilities of 120 schools at a cost of Rs 134 crore in all 16 districts. Various projects pertaining to rural connectivity, education and tourism in parts of Manipur with a total value of Rs 102 crore were also included on the list of initiatives. Other projects include construction of a multipurpose indoor stadium worth Rs 36 crore at Khuman Lampak Sports Complex in Imphal, and upgradation of NH 102 A in Tengnoupal sections worth Rs 502 crore.

Addressing the gathering in Churachandpur, the Prime Minister remarked that Manipur is a land of courage and determination, and its hills are a priceless gift of nature. He added that the name "Manipur" contains the word "Mani," symbolizing a jewel that will enhance the brilliance of the entire Northeast in the times to come.

Modi acknowledged that Manipur is a border state where connectivity has always been a major challenge. He said that since 2014, his government has focused on improving connectivity in Manipur, increasing the budget for rail and road projects.

Earlier in the day, before arriving in Manipur, Modi launched projects worth ₹9,000 crore in Mizoram. This included the Bairabi-Sairang line, which connected Mizoram to the Indian Railways network for the first time.

The Prime Minister's visit comes after ethnic clashes broke out in May 2023, triggered by a court order on granting Meitei ST status. The conflict resulted in over 260 deaths and displaced nearly 60,000 people. During his address, Modi appealed for peace and reconciliation, urging all groups to choose the path of peace. He stressed that peace is essential for the future of the state and the well-being of its children. He also met families staying in relief camps and expressed confidence that a new dawn of hope and trust is rising in Manipur.

However, the Congress party criticized Modi's visit, calling it a "pit stop" and a "grave insult" to the people of Manipur. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge accused Modi of organizing a grand welcome ceremony for himself while the state continues to suffer.