Manipur CM Calls for Unity and Economic Revamp Amid Ethnic Strife

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh emphasized the need to bolster the northeastern state's economy, which has suffered due to ethnic violence since May last year. Speaking at a horticulture and soil conservation program, Singh highlighted efforts toward self-reliance, addressing skill shortages, and maintaining unity across ethnic groups.

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Friday stressed the need for collective efforts to rejuvenate the economy of the northeastern state, which has been marred by ethnic violence since May last year.

The CM was speaking at a skill and training program organized by the horticulture and soil conservation department.

'Our government is committed to making Manipur an organic and self-sufficient state. We must work towards economic improvement despite the ongoing conflict. The government is striving to overcome skill shortages and achieve self-reliance,' Singh stated.

He underscored that people cannot abandon their livelihood due to the conflict.

The ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities have resulted in over 200 deaths since May 2024.

'The government is prepared to tackle every challenge arising from the conflict. We aim to find a political solution and restore peace. Despite improvements, some individuals are still agitated,' Singh remarked.

Singh noted one reason for the conflict is the state government's action against illegal immigrants.

Describing recent events as 'heartbreaking', the CM urged unity among different ethnic groups.

'Let's preserve unity. Politics tends to divide, but we must not let it win. The conflict arose not due to corruption, but because of attempts to disrupt government efforts to unify the state,' Singh emphasized.

(With inputs from agencies.)