Viksit Manipur must be part of Viksit Bharat: CM
'Anti-peace elements still at large'
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, November 05 2026: Categorically saying that a Viksit Manipur must be a part of a Viksit Bharat, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has underscored the pivotal roles of science and technology in the development of a Nation.

The Chief Minister was speaking at the opening session of a two-day Innotech Fest 2.0-2026 held today at Manipur Science Centre, Takyelpat under the aegis of the Department of Science & Technology and Manipur Tech Innovation Foundation.

"I'm no expert of science and technology but the models built by students and startups, and displayed today are quite inspiring", Khemchand said.

He said that these students and startups are the future pillars of the society, and their innovative ideas and technologies will contribute immensely toward realising a Viksit Manipur.

The Chief Minister stated that the Government could not invest much time and resources in development as the Government was always preoccupied with several sensitive issues and crises which broke out one after another in quick succession.

"From February 4, 2026, the day my Government was formed till date, the Government is always occupied in tackling violence and other law and order issues for almost 12 hours everyday", he said.

It is indeed a serious problem that there are certain elements who do not want peace or normalcy to return to Manipur, he added.

For a State to achieve rapid development, it is imperative for the Chief Minister, the Council of Ministers and the bureaucrats to be sincere.

At the same time, citizens must use the rights and opportunities given to them in a constructive way, Khemchand said.

Unlike the past years when Manipur faced chronic issues of shortage of Urea, there was no issue of Urea this Kharif season.

This was made possible after concerned officials were told in unequivocal terms that there should be no room for political influence in the distribution of subsidized Urea or no Urea bags should be set aside for any one in positions of power, he said.

The Chief Minister stated that everyone must work with integrity and dedication for the development of Manipur.

Khemchand also distributed prizes to winners of the Innovative Idea Challenge held on October 28, ahead of Innotech Fest 2.0 .

Commercial stalls are also opened at the festival.

It would also feature a competition on robotics design in two categories - school and college.

A panel discussion and a workshop on "Intellectual Property Rights" will be organised during the festival.

Science & Technology Secretary Kengoo Zuringla and Skill, Labour Employment and Entrepreneurship Secretary Nongmaithem Bandana were also present at the opening session.

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