Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, in a recent address, emphasized that Manipur cannot accommodate illegal immigrants under the guise of inclusiveness, stating that the focus must be on safeguarding the rights and well-being of the state’s indigenous communities. Speaking at a school event in Imphal, Singh highlighted the need to protect Manipur’s culture and identity, especially as the state navigates a challenging period marked by displacement and loss.
“Manipur is in a transitional period. Many have faced hardships, with thousands leaving their homes and living in relief camps,” Singh said. He emphasized the importance of a strong, future-focused commitment from political leaders, particularly in protecting the indigenous status of Manipur’s 34 government-recognized tribes, including the Thadou, Hmar, Gangte, Tangkhul, Mao, and Maram.
Singh pointed out that while inclusivity is a valued principle, Manipur’s limited resources and space mean it cannot feasibly absorb a large influx of outsiders without risking the stability and culture of local communities. “A firm stand is necessary to ensure the future of our children,” he noted.
He also acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “nation-first” philosophy, urging residents to adopt this mindset for collective progress. Highlighting education’s role as the backbone of society, Singh announced the creation of a syllabus committee aimed at developing a curriculum that would deepen students’ understanding of Manipur’s history and its tribal heritage. As part of this initiative, the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) will soon publish Know Your Manipur, a general knowledge book dedicated to educating young people on the state’s unique cultural and historical landscape.
Commenting on the strides made in education, Singh praised the growing competition between government and private schools, describing it as beneficial for students and for the development of educational standards in Manipur.