PM claims Centre's timely intervention saved Manipur
Efforts underway to conclude the peace talks with Naga groups expeditiously: Narendra Modi
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, April 08 2024: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has contended that timely intervention by both the government of India and Manipur helped in bringing significant improvement in situation in the strife-torn state.

Emphasising the collective responsibility to address issues with sensitivity, PM Modi commended the dedicated efforts of Home Minister Amit Shah for personally engaging with stakeholders during the peak of the conflict, holding over 15 meetings to facilitate resolution.

In an exclusive interview with The Assam Tribune held at the Prime Minister's official residence in Delhi, Modi expressed his unwavering confidence in the youth of the Northeast, affirming their indispensable role in driving overall regional development.

Reflecting on the region's transition from neglect to abundance since Independence, Prime Minister Modi underscored the comprehensive approach adopted to address prevailing challenges.

The interview shed light on the ongoing relief and rehabilitation measures in Manipur, including a financial package aimed at aiding individuals residing in shelter camps.

Modi reiterated the government of India's steadfast commitment to extending support as required by the state government.

The Prime Minister also called the signing of Framework Agreement with the NSCN-IM on August 3, 2015 as a landmark agreement aimed at providing a framework for resolving decades-old Naga political problems, laying down broad principles for the final agreement.

The government of India has been actively engaged in peace talks with NSCN (IM) and other Naga groups, with official representatives leading negotiations.

Efforts are underway to conclude the peace talks with Naga groups expeditiously, he said.

On influx of Myanmar nationals, PM Modi cited internal developments in the neighbouring country as a key factor contributing to the migration.

To address the challenge and secure borders, the government has implemented several measures including the decision to abolish the Free Movement Regime (FMR) between India and Myanmar, bolster deployment of Border Guarding Forces along the Indo-Myanmar border, and enhance coordination among security agencies.

The government of India has initiated construction of fencing along feasible patches of the Indo-Myanmar border to fortify security measures.

Additionally, efforts are underway to capture biometric data of illegal migrants in Mizoram, with the government providing necessary assistance and resources to facilitate this process.

He expressed the desire for peace and stability to return in Myanmar swiftly, enabling displaced individuals to return to their homeland in a peaceful manner.

He also noted substantial improvements in infrastructure connectivity across the region, including advancements in roadways, railways, airways, and waterways.

Noteworthy achievements include the integration of border villages into the Vibrant Villages Program, facilitating last-mile connectivity.

Modi emphasised the region's integral role in India's Act East Policy, and highlighted major projects aimed at Unking Southeast Asia with the Northeast.

He reiterated his belief that the development of the Northeast is crucial for the overaU progress of India.

Addressing historical challenges of insurgencies, infiltration, and institutional neglect, Modi underscored the government's firm approach in dealing with insurgency while expressing that signing of 11 peace agreements in the last decade paved the way for successful integration of over 9500 insurgents into mainstream society since 2014.The Northeast has witnessed a significant improvement in security, with a 71 per cent reduction in insurgency incidents and notable declines in security force casualties and civilian deaths, he said and added that AFSPA has been withdrawn from most parts of the Northeast as a result of enhanced security.

Furthermore, PM Modi expressed confidence in the youth of Northeast India, highlighting investments exceeding Rs 14,000 crore in promoting higher education and fostering entrepreneurship.

The inauguration of the country's first Sports University in Manipur and the establishment of over 200 Khelo India centres exemplify the government's commitment to nurturing talent and fostering holistic development.

Agriculture in the region is flourishing, with initiatives such as organic farming and Mission Oil Palm driving prosperity and enabling the Northeast to emerge as a leader in various sectors, he added.

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