Asem Bhakta
Special Correspondent North East
Imphal: Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Friday announced a major package of development initiatives for Kangpokpi district and declared the immediate reopening of the National Highways for free movement of people from all communities.
The Chief Minister, accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen and Saitu MLA Haokholet Kipgen, made the announcements during his visit to Kangpokpi District Headquarters. He also announced the resumption of the Imphal–Dimapur bus service.
As part of the government’s peace-building and development initiatives, the Chief Minister inaugurated a Dialysis Unit and District Blood Storage Facility and handed over ambulances to the Chief Medical Officer, Kangpokpi.
Development of Northeast, Kangpokpi a Priority
Addressing the gathering, Khemchand said the development of India would remain incomplete without the Northeast, while the development of Manipur would remain incomplete without Kangpokpi.
Quoting the Bible, he appealed to the people to “forgive and forget” and urged all communities to work together for peace and development. He said people should first identify themselves as Indians and then as Manipuris, while stressing that the historic boundaries of Manipur had been protected through the collective efforts of all communities.
Major Projects Announced
The Chief Minister announced several major projects for the district, including:
– Upgradation of Kangpokpi District Hospital into a 100-bed hospital with CT Scan facility
– Establishment of new PHCs at Motbung and T. Waichong
– Upgradation of CHC Saikul
– Construction of flood-control retaining walls along rivers in the district
– Construction of a City Convention Hall-cum-Guest House, with work to begin this year
– Establishment of a computerised examination centre and new sports facilities
Welfare Benefits Distributed
Benefits under various Central government schemes, including PM-JAY, PM-Kisan, PM Surya Ghar, PM-KUSUM and Mission Vatsalya, were distributed during the programme. Financial assistance was also provided to internally displaced persons (IDPs) and dialysis patients.
Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen stressed that both the hills and valley must develop equally for Manipur to achieve comprehensive progress. She called for peace through mutual trust and understanding.
Saitu MLA Haokholet Kipgen appealed to all communities to leave the past behind and return to normalcy. Describing National Highway-2 as a lifeline of the region, he noted that the highway has served the people since the Second World War.
The Chief Minister also felicitated two young sportspersons from Kangpokpi district for their achievements at the international level.
