IMPHAL, April 17: Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) and Communications, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, arrived in Imphal on Thursday to assess the progress of key central development schemes in Manipur. His visit highlighted the Centre’s continued focus on infrastructure, peacebuilding, and youth-centric initiatives in the North East.
Upon arrival, Scindia chaired a comprehensive review meeting at the Raj Bhawan conference hall alongside Governor of Manipur Ajay Kumar Bhalla. Senior officials from both the central and state governments also participated. The meeting focused on expediting the implementation of ongoing projects and ensuring timely delivery of benefits to the people of the region.
During the session, the Union Minister presented a detailed review of various projects underway in Manipur. He underscored the need to focus on specific sectors including handicrafts and handloom, sports, tourism, international trade, agriculture—particularly palm oil farming—logistics, and the development of national highways. He further directed concerned officials to accelerate progress on infrastructure projects such as universities, the Manipur IT-SEZ, a mental hospital, and a maternity and child hospital.
Scindia, in a social media post, reaffirmed the Centre’s dedication to supporting Manipur’s development journey. “Delighted to be in Imphal, Manipur today for Review Meeting on key development schemes and to participate in a High-Level Task Force Meeting on Sports. We remain committed in supporting the State’s journey towards peace, development & youth empowerment,” he wrote.
This high-level visit comes shortly after a major diplomatic initiative earlier in the week. On April 15, the Ministry of DoNER hosted an Ambassadors’ Meet in New Delhi, which drew representatives from over 80 countries. The event aimed to position the North East as a gateway for global investment and regional cooperation. Addressing the gathering, Scindia described the region as one rich in opportunity and crucial to India’s strategic and economic outlook.
Officials note that the visit and diplomatic outreach represent the Centre’s broader push to integrate the North East more deeply into national development plans and international partnerships.
