Manipur gradually moving toward stability, says Governor Bhalla

Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Tuesday said the state was gradually moving toward stability with the collective efforts of the government, security forces, civil society, and communities.
Addressing the 2026 North-East Seminar on “Resurgent Manipur: Framework for Stability & Sustained Growth” at the City Convention Centre, Imphal, organised by the Assam Rifles, the Governor stated that the concept of “Team Resurgent Manipur” symbolised recovery from recent challenges and a renewed commitment to building a stronger foundation of peace, unity, and long-term development.
He stressed that a stable environment required robust law and order management, strong governance, and close coordination among stakeholders. Strengthening border management, curbing narcotics, and defeating organised crime were equally important to ensure durable peace, he added.
Highlighting Manipur’s resilience, rich cultural legacy, and strategic geographical position, Bhalla underlined the need for reconciliation, social harmony, effective governance, and coordinated efforts to restore peace and stability. He also pointed to the state’s strong potential in agriculture, horticulture, handloom, handicrafts, eco-tourism, and sports, noting the global achievements of Manipuri athletes.
Calling for greater investment in education, skill development, connectivity, and youth empowerment, the Governor said such measures would help build a stable and prosperous future for the state.
The seminar featured three plenary sessions, beginning with “Manipur at Crossroads” chaired by Lt Gen CA Krishnan (Retd), who presented an overview of the state’s evolving security environment, governance issues, and regional geopolitical influences. Anthropologist and India Foundation Senior Fellow Rami N. Desai spoke on external factors contributing to internal unrest, including cross-border dynamics, demographic pressures, illegal immigration, and narcotics networks.
Security Advisor Kuldiep Singh, DG Assam Rifles Vikas Lakhera, IGAR (South) Maj Gen Ravroop Singh, Manipur University Vice-Chancellor N Lokendra Singh, senior Assam Rifles officers, and students also attended the event.