SENAPATI, Dec 18: Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Wednesday inaugurated the Robvena Ni 2024 festival at the Asufii Robvena Ground in Punanamei Village, Senapati District. Lighting the ceremonial fire to mark the opening of the three-day festival, the Chief Minister emphasized the festival’s theme of reconciliation and its importance in fostering unity among all communities in Manipur.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said people of Senapati especially Civil Society Organisations like Naga Peoples’ Organisation, United Naga Council, student associations have a big role to play in maintaining Manipur’s unity, integrity and peaceful coexistence of all indigenous population in the State. Seeking the support and cooperation of all indigenous and recognized communities, he urged collective efforts to restore peace and normalcy in the state.
Reflecting on the challenges faced by Manipur over the last 19 months, CM Biren Singh expressed optimism about the improving situation, attributing the change to divine grace. He applauded the festival’s theme of reconciliation and highlighted its relevance in today’s times, emphasizing the need for dialogue, forgiveness, and understanding to foster harmony among communities.
The Chief Minister also explained that all humans are bound to err, but there should be room for reconciliation and to forgive and forget through meetings and talks. He underscored the significance of equal development and mutual respect, noting that peace and unity in Manipur are contingent on inclusive progress.
Highlighting the government’s efforts, CM N. Biren Singh mentioned the Go to Hills initiative, aimed at ensuring equitable development in both the hills and the valley. He pointed out that the government has achieved 70-80 percent success in this mission, citing developmental projects in Senapati District, including the construction of an Indigenous Sports Complex, a District Youth Skilling and Entrepreneurship Centre, and the near-completion of the Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT).
The Chief Minister also announced plans to install advanced healthcare facilities like MRI and CT scan equipment in hill districts, including Senapati, Tamenglong, Ukhrul, and Chandel.
CM N Biren Singh commended the improved road connectivity in the state, highlighting the Rs. 777 crore allocated by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari for the widening and improvement of the Shangshak-Tengnoupal road. He assured the completion of the Maram-Peren road at the earliest and pointed out the enhanced condition of the Khongshang-Tamenglong road.
The Chief Minister highlighted the Sangai Ethnic Park, which features traditional huts for each recognized tribe, as a symbol of unity among Manipur’s 34-35 recognized tribes, including 24-25 indigenous communities. He announced plans for a Unity Mall in Imphal East to accommodate stalls for every recognized tribe, further promoting cultural harmony.
The Mao Bazaar in Imphal was acknowledged as a significant example of integration, and the CM also noted that Senapati hosts the state’s only multi-storey car parking facility, a testament to its growing infrastructure.
Addressing social issues, CM N. Biren Singh reiterated the government’s commitment to the War on Drugs, launched in 2018 to safeguard future generations. He clarified that the initiative is not targeted at any community but aims to combat the drug menace. The identification of illegal immigrants is being conducted under constitutional provisions, especially in light of the growth of unrecognized villages.
While acknowledging misunderstandings and unfortunate events that have resulted in loss of lives and property, the Chief Minister appealed to the people of Senapati to support peace efforts.
Extending his warm wishes for Christmas, CM N. Biren Singh concluded his speech by emphasizing the importance of expanding Senapati Town to address the district’s growing population and development needs.
Following the inaugural ceremony, the Chief Minister, accompanied by Works Minister Govindas Konthoujam and other dignitaries, visited the festival’s 21 exhibited stalls showcasing handlooms, handicrafts, organic vegetables, and food items.
The Robvena Ni festival will continue over the next two days, promoting reconciliation, cultural celebration, and community harmony in the region.
