Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth arrived in Kamjong district of Manipur on April 9 to review developmental initiatives and examine proposed enhancements to the border infrastructure. His visit aimed to assess the pace and scope of ongoing government schemes in the region while ensuring that the concerns of the local population were addressed through timely administrative support and infrastructural interventions.
Deputy Commissioner Rangnamai Rang Peter and local MLA Leishiyo Keishing welcomed the minister, who began his official engagements with a meeting involving district-level officers, local representatives, and community leaders. Seth emphasized the Government of India’s commitment to uplifting remote and border districts through enhanced connectivity, improved governance, and sustained dialogue with citizens. He noted that Kamjong’s strategic importance required integrated efforts from both the Centre and the state to improve quality of life, reduce isolation, and support economic opportunity.
During the meeting, Seth engaged directly with officials to evaluate the progress of key central projects such as the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, Jal Jeevan Mission, and rural electrification. He stressed that transparency, efficiency, and on-ground execution must remain central to the development model being implemented in Kamjong and other similar border districts. He also interacted with the heads of various departments, urging them to submit regular progress reports and consult with local communities for better impact.
Seth’s visit brought a renewed focus on a proposed border infrastructure plan meant to ease movement, bolster local economies, and address long-standing connectivity issues. The minister asserted that the Centre would prioritize Kamjong in its infrastructure development roadmap, especially concerning road networks, bridges, and telecommunications. He said the improved infrastructure would not only enhance military preparedness in sensitive areas but would also bridge the gap between isolated villages and administrative centers.
In his address to the public, the minister assured that the Union Government would continue to push for inclusive development in Northeast India. He stated that the aspirations of the people in border regions matter deeply to the central leadership, and every initiative would aim to deliver sustainable outcomes. He also acknowledged the challenges that communities in Kamjong face, including access to healthcare, education, and timely delivery of welfare services.
Seth commended the resilience of the residents and acknowledged their participation in local governance as a critical asset. He encouraged youth and women in Kamjong to take advantage of government schemes aimed at skill development and entrepreneurship. He said local talent must find avenues to grow within their own region without having to migrate.
The minister also inspected the proposed locations for strategic infrastructure development, including the sites earmarked for new approach roads and check posts. He reiterated that the government would factor in environmental sensitivity and community consultation before finalizing large-scale projects. He promised that border infrastructure would integrate both civilian and defense needs.
Security personnel briefed the minister on the current situation in the border areas, and he assured continued cooperation between the defense forces and civil administration. He said peace and stability were prerequisites for progress and that the Centre would support any effort aimed at preserving harmony and strengthening security.
Seth concluded his visit by meeting representatives of local civil society organizations and tribal bodies, listening to their concerns on livelihood, land use, and youth employment. He said the government would soon roll out development packages focused on indigenous communities in Kamjong, reflecting a larger vision of unity, growth, and respect for diversity.
The visit marked a significant moment for Kamjong as it brought national attention to a region that often remains on the fringes of policy discussions. Seth’s interactions and promises rekindled hopes among locals that meaningful development and infrastructure growth would soon transform their daily lives. The district administration expressed optimism that the Centre’s renewed interest would lead to faster implementation and visible change on the ground.
