SENAPATI: Development projects, calls for unity, and a message of peace marked Chief Minister Y. Khemchand Singh’s visit to Senapati on Friday, where he attended a public reception organised by Naga civil society organisations and inaugurated several key initiatives for the district.
Speaking at the programme, the Chief Minister described Manipur as a “mini-India”, pointing to the diverse communities living within the state. He said lasting peace can only be achieved when people move beyond ethnic divisions and begin to see themselves first as Indians and Manipuris before identifying with individual communities.
Referring to the current tensions in the state, he noted that communities such as Nagas, Meiteis and Kukis have increasingly emphasised their separate identities. According to him, restoring a shared sense of belonging will be crucial for peace and stability.
He also spoke about the state’s development potential, remarking that Manipur could witness rapid growth comparable to Singapore if its people unite with a common vision. As part of future plans for the district, the Chief Minister announced that a medical college will be established in Senapati and tourism infrastructure will be developed along the Barak River in consultation with the Tourism Department and local civil society organisations.
Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, who also addressed the gathering, thanked the people of Senapati for organising what he described as a historic reception for the Chief Minister. He noted that it was the first time a hill district had organised such a reception for the state’s leader.
Dikho said the gesture reflected the people’s support for the government during a difficult period for the state. He emphasised that peace must now become a shared responsibility for all communities.
Highlighting the district’s social fabric, he pointed out that the five major tribes of Senapati have consistently stood in support of peace. He also acknowledged the role of church ministries in promoting harmony, saying they have been continuously praying for peace and for the leadership of the state.
After concluding his speech, Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho requested the gathering to observe a one-minute silence in remembrance of the two infants who were killed in the recent bomb blast at Tronglaobi Awang Leikai in Bishnupur district earlier this week.
Earlier, Kuba Peter, president of the Naga People’s Organisation (NPO), welcomed the Chief Minister and other dignitaries. He said the visit was encouraging for the people of Senapati and reflected the government’s concern for peace among all communities of Manipur. Expressing optimism, he said the Chief Minister’s presence in the district sends a hopeful message that peace is possible.
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During the visit, the Chief Minister inaugurated several development projects in Senapati district. These included a multi-level parking facility at Senapati Bazaar designed as an interstate and district agriculture and economic transportation hub.
Other projects inaugurated were 10 Multi-Purpose Centres under PM-Janman in PVTG areas of the Maram tribe, a Primary Health Sub-Centre building at Punanamei, and a 3D Digital Laboratory under PM-DeVINE.
Foundation stones were also laid for multiple infrastructure works across the district, including the construction of 69 Anganwadi centre buildings, installation of flood lighting at Senapati Public Turf Ground, additional classrooms in 15 ADC schools, construction of 30 toilets, 22 water reservoirs, 10 community halls, wayside amenities and solid waste management infrastructure at 14 locations.
The programme was attended by MLAs including Awangbow Newmai, T. Robindro Singh and Kumo Sha, along with officials and civil society leaders.
The reception was organised by three Naga frontal organisations led by the Naga People’s Organisation. Notably, the Chief Minister travelled to Senapati by road via Kangpokpi along National Highway 2 (India), marking his first road journey to the district through the Kuki-dominated area since assuming office.