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IMPHAL — Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh said on Sunday that the state government has a special interest in the development of hill districts across various sectors, including sports, education, health infrastructure, and employment.
The emphasis is on upgrading educational institutions and developing sports facilities, such as the indigenous wrestling stadium in Senapati and youth skill development centres in district headquarters, he mentioned.
Speaking at the statehood day celebration of the state in Imphal, Biren Singh lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah and highlighted the significance of Shah's recent assurance to end the Free Movement Regime and fence the Myanmar border.
He cautioned those questioning the state's unity and integrity to be mindful that the indigenous people of the state will join forces and stand united to address any such challenge. He went on to say that if there is room for dialogue, he is ready, and the state security force is also prepared, but that attacks on civilians should stop.
Manipur, a princely state, merged into India in 1949 and was granted statehood in 1972, he said, and highlighted that in the past few years, the government has demonstrated its commitment to inclusive development, working towards bringing progress across the state without differentiating between hills and valleys.
He, however, mentioned that unwanted incidents since May 3 last year have halted developmental work in some districts.
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