Can Infrastructure Alone Heal Manipur? PM Modi’s Visit Raises Questions

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Manipur on September 13 comes nearly 28 months after the outbreak of ethnic violence in the state, which began in May 2023 and resulted in over 200 deaths and the internal displacement of more than 60,000 people.

While the Prime Minister inaugurated multiple development projects worth over ₹1,200 crore, analysts suggest that the visit carries both developmental and symbolic significance for the warring communities in Manipur.

In his speech in Imphal, PM Modi launched key initiatives such as the Manipur Urban Roads Project (₹3,600 crore), Manipur Infotech Development Project (₹500 crore), the Civil Secretariat at Mantripukhri, a new IT SEZ and Police Headquarters, Manipur Bhawans in Delhi and Kolkata, and four new Ima Markets for women entrepreneurs. These initiatives are intended to enhance infrastructure, generate jobs, make governance robust, and enhance economic empowerment for women.

The Prime Minister underlined Manipur's cultural heritage, sporting success, and strategic location. He made the announcements of cutting GST on basic items, building materials, and hospitality services to keep every-day commodities cheaper, enhance local markets, and help the tourism sector. Investments in Smart City Mission infrastructure, road projects, IT and sports investments like the National Sports University, Marjing Polo Complex, and Olympian Park are evidence of a wider vision of Manipur as an opportunity hub in the Northeast.

Balancing Development and Ethnic Concerns

But the visit is timing sensitive. The ethnic clashes have created fissures between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities that run deep, with the displaced populations remaining in abysmal conditions. Analysts and security experts suggest that despite welcome infrastructure initiatives, the expectation among the population is for more urgent relief actions, especially for the displaced populations of people. An extensive relief package, decent housing, and faster justice for the victims are essential to regain people's faith in the governance structure.

Underlying tensions are rooted in long-standing demands and anxieties: the Meiteis want Scheduled Tribe status to gain land in the hills, while Kuki-Zo tribes worry about losing land rights and want autonomy to counter perceived discrimination in the allocation of resources. These concerns, if not addressed, continue to fuel mistrust and insecurity, and the threat of renewed violence exists.

Witnesses advise that the Prime Minister's visit is a chance to give clear, confidence-inspiring signals to both groups. Public recognition of the pain suffered, combined with tangible promises toward rehabilitation, justice, and inclusive dialogue, can be a turning point in Manipur's journey toward normalcy. Conversely, half-hearted gestures or promises without universal stakeholder participation can erode confidence and extend instability.

Strategic and Political Implications

Apart from development, the visit can also have political and strategic overtones. By highlighting infrastructure, governance, empowerment of women, and development of youth, the government seems to be going for a Manipur model of growth and integration in the Northeast and also attempting to stabilize communities and ensure that there is no more unrest. Practical steps like renaming Mount Harriet as Mount Manipur and emphasizing local input to India's freedom movement help enhance national integration narratives and regional pride.

Even economic and social interventions are deemed by experts to be insufficient in themselves. Displaced people, for many of whom high inflation and unemployment are problems, need relief in the short term. Furthermore, the high availability of weapons within impacted communities further magnifies the necessity for effective security and reconciliation interventions along with development activities.

PM Modi’s visit, while primarily framed around infrastructure and development, carries deeper implications. If coupled with genuine engagement on ethnic grievances, justice for victims, and rehabilitation for displaced populations, it could mark the beginning of a gradual restoration of peace and stability in Manipur. Experts highlight that the real test of the government's strategy will come not in inaugurations and declarations, but in delivery of concrete relief, inclusive administration, and continued dialogue that rebuilds confidence between communities.

Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and other dignitaries attended the event.

Also Read: After 2023 Unrest, PM Modi Arrives in Manipur With Multi-Crore Project Plans