Manipur CM says free movement on NH-2 boosted state's economy, cites Rs 1,200 crore GST revenue loss during ethnic crisis

Guwahati: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh lauded the people of Maram, Tadubi and Mao in Senapati district for their cooperation in resuming free movement along the National Highway, which connects Imphal to Guwahati via Dimapur.

He added that the resumption of free movement along the highway has boosted the state's economy.

The Chief Minister made the above statement while attending the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan at the Tadubi local ground in Senapati district of Manipur.


Addressing the gathering, Singh stated that he had personally decided to attend the programme in the 49-Tadubi Assembly Constituency in the hill district of Manipur, as the Tadubi Assembly seat remains vacant following the demise of N. Kayisii in 2025.

The Chief Minister further stated that the crisis that erupted on May 3, 2023, had severely affected the state's economy. He added that the state had incurred an estimated revenue loss of around Rs 1,200 crore in GST collections during the period from 2023 to 2026.

He further stated that bandhs and blockades had adversely affected daily-wage earners and students across the state. He further stated that any differences among communities could be resolved through dialogue.

Singh stated that the 36 different communities residing in the state had cooperated with the then kings of Manipur during the Manipuri-Burmese War, collectively resisting and successfully driving away the Burmese Army, thereby safeguarding the state. He added that all communities in the state must, therefore, work collectively towards achieving a common goal.

Speaking on developmental initiatives in the state, the Chief Minister informed that the government had earmarked an estimated amount of Rs 10 crore in the budget for each Assembly Constituency in the state for the construction of Inter-Village Roads (IVRs).

He further stated that, with a view to ensuring equitable development across the hill districts, a medical college had been established in Churachandpur district during the previous term of the government, and another medical college would now be established in Senapati district.

The Chief Minister expressed concern that the Meiteis, Nagas and Kukis were increasingly reluctant to identify themselves as Manipuris. He added that, for the state to move forward towards peace, people must first identify themselves as Indians and, secondly, as Manipuris.

Citing Singapore as an example of collective efforts towards development, Singh stated that the country is home to four different communities that work together towards the common goal of national development and have succeeded in achieving it.

Narrating Narendra Modi's vision of transforming the nation, Singh stated that, before he became the Prime Minister of the country, India stood at the 11th position in terms of the world's largest economies. He added that, after Narendra Modi became the Prime Minister, India now holds the position of the 4th largest economy in the world, making it one of the largest economies in the world. He added that, under the leadership of the Prime Minister, the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 aims to build a strong India by the time the country attains 100 years of independence.

The Chief Minister maintained that the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan campaign is being held across the country to acknowledge Modi's 25 years of public service and to carry forward the spirit of public service and good governance.

A. Kapani, former Chairman of the Autonomous District Council (ADC), Senapati, expressed his appreciation to the district administration for providing a platform to participate in the celebration marking 25 years of selfless service to the nation by Narendra Modi.

He stated that the Tadubi Assembly Constituency had faced numerous difficulties in the absence of an elected representative. However, under the guidance of the Chief Minister, government policies and benefits were now being extended to the people of the constituency. He also appreciated the Chief Minister's initiative in facilitating free movement along National Highway-2.

He further assured that the 49-Tadubi Assembly Constituency would always extend its support to any peace initiatives undertaken by the state government.

During the programme, the Chief Minister distributed benefits under various government schemes to eligible beneficiaries of the district, while the President of Mao Union, Tadubi, submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister.