SENAPATI: In what could be termed as a momentous occasion for Senapati district of Manipur, Droupadi Murmu, the President of India visited the district and inaugurated 7 (seven) development projects and laid the foundation stones for 5(five) development projects. Upon her arrival at the Taphou Naga Village Ground helipad, the President was received by Ajay Kumar Bhalla, the Governor of Manipur, accompanied by Mamoni Doley, DC of Senapati, Sheikh Mohammad Zaib Zakir, SP Senapati, Maj. Gen. SS Kartikeya, YSM, SS GOC, 57 Mountain Division and representatives of the 5(five) tribes of the district who felicitated the Hon’ble President with their unique traditional items and a cultural reception.
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The President had an interaction with Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from Kangpokpi district near the Multi-Purpose Hall, Mini Secretariat Complex in Senapati town, in the presence of Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Governor of Manipur, accompanied by Mahesh Hiralal Chaudhari, DC, Kangpokpi and Mamoni Doley, DC of Senapati.
Thereafter, a formal function was held at the Multi-Purpose Hall, during which Ajay Kumar Bhalla welcomed the President of India to Senapati district, Manipur, praising the region’s serene beauty and its vibrant Naga tribes embodying the rich traditions and strong community bonds. Ajay Kumar Bhalla further stated that the President’s visit to the district holds deep significance, especially for the people in the hill areas, and reinforces the bond between the region and the nation’s democratic institutions. The speech highlighted the government’s commitment to the upliftment of tribal communities, particularly the Maram tribe (the only PVTG in Manipur), through focused development schemes including improved health facilities, road connectivity and water supply. The Governor emphasized that equitable and balanced development across the hill and valley regions as a priority of the state, with a target to unlock the immense potential in agriculture, traditional crafts, and ecotourism. Acknowledging recent periods of strain, the address assured that the government is working tirelessly to foster unity, peace, mutual respect, and harmony across all communities, viewing the President’s presence as a powerful message of solidarity and national support.
Addressing a gathering, Droupadi Murmu emphasized the nation’s unwavering commitment to the holistic development and well-being of Manipur’s tribal communities. Commemorating Nupee Lal Memorial Day, the President celebrated Manipur’s rich cultural diversity, noting that focused attention and affirmative support are being directed towards all tribal groups with specific focus on the region’s only Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG), the Marams. Highlighting initiatives under the PM JANMAN mission, she pointed to ongoing efforts in healthcare, education, livelihood promotion, and infrastructure development, which are collectively designed to uplift remote habitations. The President affirmed that ensuring dignity, security, and growth opportunities for all tribal communities is a national priority, and the government is committed to making development in Manipur inclusive and sustainable growth through special investments in areas like road connectivity, healthcare, and electricity supply.
Furthermore, President Murmu expressed confidence that the recently inaugurated development projects and the foundation stones laid for institutional buildings would significantly strengthen essential services like education, security, and healthcare, bringing them closer to thousands of remote families. She stressed that Manipur’s strength lies in its diversity, urging the communities in the hills and valley to continue supporting peace, understanding, and reconciliation. Reaffirming the Government of India’s commitment to the people’s aspirations, the President concluded by expressing total empathy for their concerns and their desire for a peaceful and prosperous future, reiterating the resolve to work together for the region’s bright progress.
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As part of the programme, the President was accorded a warm welcome with a traditional folk song of the 5 tribes of Senapati, namely, the Mao, Maram, Poumai, Thangal and Zeliangrong, showcasing the rich and vibrant cultural heritage of the tribes. The President was also felicitated with a Portrait named Happy Alone Series — an artwork celebrating the strength and resilience of Naga women in their authentic kitchen setting and a handcrafted beaded necklace.
During her visit, the President held an extensive and empathetic interaction with Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from Kangpokpi affected by the conflict, acknowledging their immense hardships and displacement. She affirmed that the Governments of India and Manipur stand firmly and dedicatedly with all affected families, commending the remarkable courage and patience they have demonstrated. The President assured them of the government’s full commitment to meeting every need and ensuring a swift path to recovery and lasting stability, pledging that reconstruction work will proceed rapidly, prioritizing the security of their homes, livelihoods, and the future of their children. She further reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to taking all necessary steps to move towards peace and prosperity, emphasizing that their collective courage and self-confidence remain the greatest strength as efforts are intensified to ensure the earliest possible return home for everyone.
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