President Droupadi Murmu is set to visit the Nupee Lal Memorial complex in Imphal today to honour the brave women of Manipur who fought during the historic Nupi Lal movement. Her visit to the memorial is being seen as an important gesture that recognises the strength, resilience and role of Manipuri women in shaping the state’s history. After paying her respects, the President will travel to Senapati district, where she will address a public gathering and take part in a series of foundation-laying and inauguration programmes aimed at supporting development in the region.
The President arrived in Imphal yesterday afternoon on a two-day visit. Soon after her arrival, she inaugurated and laid the foundation stones of projects worth ₹1,387 crore at a programme in the state capital. These projects cover a wide range of areas including health services, education, road connectivity, tribal welfare, agriculture, electricity supply and drinking water. Officials said the initiatives are expected to improve daily life, create new employment opportunities and support economic activities across various districts of Manipur.
At the civic reception held at the City Convention Centre, the President said the newly launched projects reflect the government’s commitment to inclusive development in Manipur. She added that the aim is to ensure that the benefits of growth reach people in both hill and valley areas. “These projects will generate employment, improve infrastructure and accelerate economic activities,” she said while addressing the gathering. 
During her speech, the President also spoke about the difficult months the state has gone through due to the ongoing violence. She expressed sadness over the pain experienced by families affected by the conflict and said the central government considers their concerns a top priority. “I am aware of the pain of the people of Manipur who have gone through the unfortunate violence. My government stands with every affected family,” she said. She assured that the government is fully committed to healing, supporting and rebuilding the lives of people who have been impacted.
Before the evening programme, President Murmu met families displaced by the violence at Lok Bhavan in Imphal. Many of these families have been living in relief camps for months, with their homes and livelihoods severely affected. The President told them that the government would continue to stand by them and work to restore their homes, livelihoods and children’s futures. Her office later said she stressed the need to create an environment of peace and long-term stability in the state.
Her visit, however, has also seen some tension. Several Kuki civil society groups in Kangpokpi district announced that they would not take part in the welcome ceremony planned in Senapati today. Groups such as Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills said they were disappointed that the President’s schedule focused on Senapati, which is dominated by the Naga community, while areas heavily affected by the conflict in Kangpokpi district were not included. They said the conflict-affected Kuki-Zo population felt overlooked and wanted more direct engagement from the central government.
The announcement of the boycott highlights the deep divisions that remain in Manipur even as the government continues efforts to restore peace. Many civil groups have been calling for more targeted relief, more visible presence from national leaders, and stronger steps towards reconciliation.
Before her civic address yesterday, the President also attended a polo event at Mapal Kangjeibung, organised by the Youth Affairs and Sports Department. The event was attended by ministers, MLAs and senior officials.
In her remarks, President Murmu described Manipur as a land known for its courage, resilience and rich cultural traditions. She praised the state’s achievements in fields such as sports, arts and public service. She also recalled the historic Nupi Lal struggle, saying that the women of Manipur continue to inspire people across the country.
Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla welcomed the President’s visit and said it reflects the strong connection between the state and the highest office of the country. He said the people of Manipur have shown patience and unity despite the challenges of the past several months. He added that the administration remains focused on building confidence, promoting healing and ensuring dignity and security for all communities.
