Manipur CM Khemchand Singh Reviews Development Works During Senapati District Visit
During an extensive tour of Senapati district, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh reviewed development projects, met civil society organisations and announced formal approval for the Rikhruri Multipurpose Dam.
SENAPATI: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Wednesday visited several locations across Senapati district to review ongoing development projects and assess the implementation of government initiatives. During the tour, he also met members of the public and representatives of various Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to hear their concerns and demands.
One of the major announcements during the visit was the formal approval for the construction of the Rikhruri Multipurpose Dam, which is expected to provide drinking water to 27 nearby villages.
The Chief Minister began his engagements with a visit to a potato farm in Mao, where T.N. Panmei, Commissioner of Horticulture, briefed him on the challenges facing the facility.
According to the Commissioner, the department has not received adequate funding over the past two years, affecting the farm’s ability to maintain its earlier level of production.
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Referring to the favourable climatic conditions of Mao, Khemchand Singh said the region has considerable potential not only for potato cultivation but also for floriculture and other horticultural produce.
He assured that the government would hold discussions with relevant stakeholders to address the problems and grievances faced by the people of the Mao area.
CM Meets United Naga Council Representatives
The Chief Minister later visited the Mini Secretariat Complex in Senapati Town, where he and Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, along with MLAs and the Senapati Deputy Commissioner, met representatives of the United Naga Council (UNC).
The meeting formed part of the government’s wider engagement with civil society organisations and local stakeholders during the district visit.
Khemchand Singh was subsequently accorded a warm welcome at the ACI Auditorium in Punanamei village, Mao, by representatives of the Mao Council, Mao Students’ Union and landowners of the Potato Farm.
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Rikhruri Multipurpose Dam Formally Approved
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister announced formal approval for the construction of the Rikhruri Multipurpose Dam.
According to the government, the proposed project will provide drinking water to 27 nearby villages, making it a significant infrastructure initiative for the area.
The announcement addresses a key local requirement and is expected to improve access to drinking water in the villages covered by the project.
During the reception programme, the Mao Council and the Poumai Naga Union also submitted memorandums to the Chief Minister, placing their respective concerns and demands before the government.
Skill Training and Youth Centre Proposal to Go Before Cabinet
The Mao Students’ Union submitted a memorandum seeking the construction of a Multipurpose Skill Training, Trade and Youth Activity Centre at Mao.
Responding to the proposal, Khemchand Singh said the matter would be discussed at a Cabinet meeting.
Such a centre, if approved, could support skill development, trade-related training and youth activities in the region. The proposal is particularly relevant in the context of employment opportunities and capacity building for young people in the hill areas.
The Chief Minister also responded to concerns regarding the enforcement of an agreement involving the landowners of the Potato Farm. He said the government would discuss the matter with the officials concerned.
Focus on Horticulture Potential and Local Concerns
The visit highlighted both the development potential and infrastructure challenges of the Mao and Senapati areas.
The concerns raised over inadequate funding for the Potato Farm indicate the need for sustained investment if the region’s favourable climate is to be effectively used for commercial horticulture.
At the same time, the approval of the Rikhruri Multipurpose Dam and the government’s assurance to consider proposals related to skill development reflect an effort to address drinking water, livelihood and youth-related concerns.
The Chief Minister’s interaction with the UNC, Mao Council, Mao Students’ Union, Poumai Naga Union and other stakeholders also provided a platform for local organisations to directly present their demands to the state government.
During the tour, the Chief Minister was accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho; Thanga MLA Tongbram Robindro Singh; Khetrigao MLA Sheikh Noorul Hassan; Karong MLA J. Kumo Sha; Commissioner (Home) N. Ashok Kumar; Commissioner of Horticulture T.N. Panmei; Senapati Deputy Commissioner Dharun Kumar S.; CAF & PD Director Nelson Yumnam; Horticulture and Soil Conservation Director Devabarta Sharma; Water Resources Chief Engineer Y. Homendro Singh; the Chief Engineer of PHED; and other officials.
