Ani- 16.09.2025
Gari paisuak thei ta.
G. Bualzang leh Lungthul T kikal a Thouvai Lui diversion a gari tang te ki kaikhia ta.
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Lamka, Sept 15, 2025: Miss Dimzangai, the long-serving Editor of Ruth Messenger, the only Christian magazine published from Lamka, passed away this morning at the age of 71. She had been leading the publication since its inception in 1995, dedicating three decades of her life to nurturing and sustaining it as a voice of faith, literature, and community.
Church leaders, readers, and fellow writers have expressed deep sorrow at her demise, remembering her as a woman of strong faith, vision, and quiet determination.
In a personal condolence message, Bruce K. Thangkhal, Joint Editor, Zogam Today and former interviewer of Miss Dimzangai, said:
"I am deeply saddened by the loss of our beloved sister Dimzangai. During my interview with her, I witnessed her humility, passion, and unwavering commitment to Christian writing. She was not only an editor but also a mentor and inspiration to many. Her legacy through Ruth Messenger will live on, and she will be remembered with love and respect."
We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and the Ruth Messenger family. May the Lord comfort and strengthen them in this time of grief. Her legacy of faith and service will continue to live on in the hearts of many.
~ KHALVONTAWI NEWS
Bharat Mata ki Jai!
Bharat Mata ki Jai!
Honourable Governor of Manipur, Shri Ajay Bhalla ji, other officials of the State Administration, and my dear brothers and sisters of Manipur! Namaskar!
Today, projects worth thousands of crores of rupees have either been inaugurated or their foundation stones laid for the development of Manipur. These projects will enhance your ease of living, strengthen infrastructure here, and create new opportunities of employment for the youth of Manipur – the sons and daughters of this land.
Friends,
Among the works that have commenced today, two projects are particularly significant. The ‘Manipur Urban Roads Project’, with an expenditure of more than ₹3,600 crore, and the Manipur Infotech Development Project, with an expenditure of more than ₹500 crore. These projects will strengthen road infrastructure in Imphal and infuse new energy into the bright future of Manipur. I extend my heartiest congratulations and best wishes to the people of Manipur for all these developmental initiatives.
Friends,
After Independence, the major cities in the western and southern parts of the country witnessed development, dreams were nurtured there, and the youth found new opportunities. Now, this 21st century belongs to the East, to the North-East. That is why the Indian Government has consistently prioritised the development of Manipur. As a result, the growth rate of Manipur has been steadily rising. Before 2014, the growth rate of Manipur was less than 1%, not even 1%. Today, Manipur is advancing many times faster than before. A new era of infrastructure construction has begun in Manipur. I am glad that the pace of road construction, including National Highways, has increased manifold in Manipur. Rapid work is also underway to connect villages across the State with roads.
Friends,
Imphal is a city full of possibilities. I see Imphal as one of those cities of a Viksit Bharat (developed India) which will fulfil the dreams of our youth and accelerate the nation’s development. With this vision, numerous projects under the Smart City Mission have been completed here. Work on several other projects worth hundreds of crores is progressing rapidly.
Friends,
Whether in Imphal or in other regions of Manipur, new opportunities are emerging for start-ups and technology-based industries. The IT Special Economic Zone will strengthen these possibilities. The first building of this Zone has already been completed. There had been a long-standing demand for a new Civil Secretariat building in Manipur. Now this building too is ready, and it will further strengthen the spirit of Nagrik Devo Bhava – “The citizen is akin to God.”
Friends,
Many of our people from Manipur frequently travel to Kolkata and Delhi. To ensure affordable accommodation there, Manipur Bhavans have been constructed in both cities. These Bhavans will particularly help the daughters of Manipur. And when children are safe there, parents here will also be less worried.
Friends,
Our government, with full sensitivity, is striving to reduce the hardships in your lives. I am aware that several regions of Manipur face severe problems due to floods. The government is also working on numerous projects to address this challenge.
Friends,
Manipur is that state of the nation where mothers and sisters are at the forefront of the economy. The tradition of Ima Keithel is a great testimony to this. I regard women’s power as the pivot of Bharat's development and of Atmanirbhar Bharat. We see this inspiration right here in Manipur. After the formation of our government here, we had begun the construction of special markets for women, the Ima Markets. I am pleased that today four Ima Markets have also been inaugurated. These markets will greatly benefit the sisters of Manipur.
Friends,
It is our mission to make the life of every citizen easier. Manipur has witnessed those days when bringing goods here was extremely difficult. Everyday items were beyond the reach of ordinary families. Over the past years, our government has freed Manipur from those old troubles. I bring you yet another piece of good news. Our government wishes to increase your savings and make your life even easier. That is why GST has now been considerably reduced. This will bring double benefits to the people of Manipur. Everyday essentials such as soap, shampoo, hair oil, clothes, shoes – all will become cheaper. The prices of cement and materials used for building houses will also fall. The government has also significantly reduced GST on hotels and food. This will benefit guest house owners, taxi operators, dhaba owners, and will also help boost tourism here.
Friends,
Manipur has a rich heritage dating back thousands of years. The roots of its culture are strong and deep. Manipur is the jewel adorning the crown of Maa Bharti. Therefore, we must continually strengthen Manipur’s developmental image. Any form of violence in Manipur is most unfortunate. Such violence is a grave injustice not only to our ancestors but also to future generations. Hence, we must collectively advance Manipur on the path of peace and development. We must draw inspiration from Manipur’s contribution in Bharat's freedom struggle and in the defence of the nation. It was on this soil of Manipur that the Indian National Army first hoisted Bharat's flag. Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose had described Manipur as the gateway to Bharat's Independence. This very land has witnessed innumerable sacrifices of brave souls. Drawing inspiration from every such great personality of Manipur, our government has moved forward. Our government has also taken another major step. In the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Mount Harriet has been renamed as Mount Manipur. This is a tribute from 140 crore Indians to the freedom fighters of Manipur.
Friends,
Even today, many sons and daughters of Manipur are safeguarding Maa Bharati in different parts of the country. In Operation Sindoor, the world has witnessed the valour of Bharat's army. Our soldiers unleashed such might that the Pakistani army was left in utter disarray. In this success of Bharat, the courage of many brave sons and daughters of Manipur was equally present. Today, I pay homage to the bravery of one such valiant martyr – Deepak Chingakham. The nation will always remember his supreme sacrifice during Operation Sindoor.
Friends,
I recall that in 2014, when I came here, I had said one thing. I had said that without Manipuri culture, Indian culture is incomplete, and without the players of Manipur, Indian sports too are incomplete. The youth of Manipur are those who dedicate their all for the pride of the Tricolour. We must not allow this identity to be suppressed under the shadow of violence.
Friends,
Today, when Bharat is emerging as a global powerhouse in sports, the responsibility of the youth of Manipur is even greater. That is why the Indian Government chose Manipur for the first National Sports University. Through the Khelo India Scheme and the Target Olympic Podium Schemes, many athletes from Manipur are being encouraged today. Modern sports infrastructure is also being created here for the youth of Manipur. To promote polo, the Marjing Polo Complex has been established here, with the world’s tallest polo statue. An Olympian Park has also been created to honour the Olympians of this land. Only a few days ago, the government announced the National Sports Policy – the Khelo Bharat Niti. In the coming years, the youth of Manipur will gain immensely from this.
Friends,
Our government is consistently working to bring peace and stability to Manipur, to secure the interests of its people, and to restore normalcy for those compelled to live in camps. For the displaced, 7,000 new houses have been sanctioned. Recently, the Central Government has also announced a special package of about ₹3,000 crore for Manipur. Out of this, a provision of more than ₹500 crore has been made to assist the displaced. Ensuring that those affected by violence return to normal life at the earliest is our topmost priority. The newly constructed headquarters for the Manipur Police will also help you immensely in this regard.
Friends,
From this sacred soil of Manipur today, I also wish to speak to my brothers and sisters of Nepal. Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Nepal is Bharat's friend and a close companion. We are bound by shared history and faith, and we move forward together. Today, on behalf of 140 crore Indians, I warmly congratulate Smt Sushila ji on assuming charge as the Interim Prime Minister of Nepal. I am confident that she will pave the way for peace, stability and prosperity in Nepal. Her assuming office as the first woman Prime Minister of Nepal is a fine example of women empowerment. Today, I also wish to commend every individual in Nepal who, even amidst instability, placed democratic values above all else.
Friends,
There is another remarkable aspect of the recent developments in Nepal, which has not attracted much attention. Over the past two or three days, young men and women of Nepal have been seen working hard with a spirit of purity and dedication, cleaning and painting the streets of Nepal. I too have seen their pictures on social media. Their positive mindset and positive actions are not only inspiring but also a clear indication of Nepal’s new dawn. I extend my best wishes to Nepal for its bright future.
Friends,
In this 21st century, our country is moving forward with a single goal – the goal of a Viksit Bharat. And for the achievement of this goal, the development of Manipur is equally essential. Our Manipur is filled with limitless potential. It is our duty not to deviate even a single step from the path of development. Manipur lacks no capability; what is needed is that we continuously strengthen the path of dialogue, build a strong bridge of harmony between the hills and the valley. I am confident that Manipur will emerge as a robust centre of the nation’s growth. Once again, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all of you for these developmental projects.
Now, say with me:
Bharat Mata ki Jai.
Bharat Mata ki Jai.
Bharat Mata ki Jai.
Thank you very much.
***
This land of Manipur is a land of courage and determination. These hills are a precious gift of nature, and at the same time, these hills are also a symbol of the continuous hard work of all of you. I salute the spirit of the people of Manipur. I express my gratitude for your love that you have come here in such large numbers even in this heavy rain. My helicopter couldn't arrive due to the heavy rain, so I decided to travel by road. And the scenes I saw on the road today, my heart says that God did well that my helicopter didn't fly today. I came by road, and I saw the love and affection shown by everyone, from young to old, holding the Tricolour on the way. I can never forget this moment in my life. I bow my head to the people of Manipur.
Friends,
The culture and traditions of this region, its diversity and vibrancy, represent a significant strength of Bharat. Even the name ‘Manipur’ contains the word ‘mani’ (jewel). This is a jewel that will add to the brilliance of the entire North-East in the times to come. The Government of Bharat has always strived to advance Manipur swiftly on the path to development. In this very spirit, I have come here among all of you today. Just a short while ago, projects worth nearly seven thousand crore rupees have been inaugurated from this very stage. These projects will further improve the lives of the people of Manipur and the tribal communities residing in the hills. These projects will establish new health and education facilities for you all. I extend my sincere congratulations to all the people of Manipur, and to everyone in Churachandpur, for these projects.
Friends,
Manipur is a state situated along the border. Connectivity here has always been a major challenge. I fully understand the difficulties you have faced due to the lack of good roads. That is why, I have placed strong emphasis on consistently working to improve Manipur’s connectivity since 2014. The Government of Bharat has undertaken efforts at two levels to achieve this. First, we have increased the budget for railways and roads in Manipur several times over, and second, we have focused on extending roads not only to the cities but also to the villages.
Friends,
In recent years, 3,700 crore rupees have been spent on National Highways here, and work on new highways is progressing rapidly with an investment of 8,700 crore rupees. You are well aware of how difficult it once was to reach villages here. Now, hundreds of villages in this region have been provided with road connectivity. This has greatly benefited the people living in the hills and the tribal villages.
Friends,
Rail connectivity in Manipur has been expanding during our government’s tenure. The Jiribam–Imphal railway line will soon connect the capital city, Imphal, to the national rail network. The government is investing 22,000 crore rupees in this project. The newly constructed Imphal Airport, built at a cost of 400 crore rupees, is taking air connectivity to new heights. Helicopter services have also been started to other parts of the country from this airport. This growing connectivity is enhancing conveniences for all the people of Manipur and creating new employment opportunities for the youth here.
Friends,
Bharat is developing at a rapid pace today. Very soon, we are set to become the world’s third largest economy. My constant endeavour is to ensure that the benefits of development reach every corner of the country. There was a time when announcements made in Delhi would take decades to be implemented here. Today, our Churachandpur, our Manipur, are progressing along with the rest of the nation. For example, we launched a scheme to build permanent houses for the poor across the country. Thousands of families in Manipur have benefited from this initiative and nearly sixty thousand houses have been constructed here. Similarly, this region earlier faced numerous challenges with electricity supply. Our government has also pledged to free you from these difficulties, and as a result, more than one lakh families in Manipur have received free electricity connections.
Friends,
Our mothers and sisters used to face many difficulties in obtaining water. Therefore, we launched the ‘Har Ghar Nal Se Jal’ (Tap Water to Every Household) scheme to address this issue. In recent years, more than 15 crore citizens across the country have gained access to tap water. In Manipur, only 25,000 to 30,000 households had piped water connections just 7-8 years ago. Today, more than 350,000 households here have access to tap water. I am confident that every family in Manipur will receive piped water in their homes very soon.
Friends,
In earlier times, good schools, colleges, and hospitals in the hill and tribal areas were mere dreams. If someone fell ill, it would often be too late by the time the patient reached a hospital. Today, the situation is changing due to the efforts of the Government of Bharat. The medical college in Churachandpur is now ready, producing new doctors and improving healthcare facilities. Just imagine, for many decades after independence, there was no medical college in the hill areas of Manipur; this achievement has been made by our government. Under the Prime Minister’s Divine Scheme, our government is developing modern health services in five hill districts. Through the Ayushman Bharat scheme, the government provides free treatment up to 5 lakh rupees for the poor. Nearly two and a half lakh patients in Manipur have received free treatment under this scheme. Without this facility, my poor brothers and sisters here would have had to spend more than 350 crore rupees from their own pockets for medical treatment. But the entire expense has been borne by the Government of Bharat because addressing the concerns of every poor person is our priority.
Friends,
The land and region of Manipur is a land of hope and promise. Unfortunately, violence had gripped this magnificent area. A little while ago, I met the affected people who are living in camps. After speaking with them, I can say that a new dawn of hope and confidence is awaiting Manipur.
Friends,
Establishing peace is essential for development anywhere. In the past eleven years, many long-standing disputes and conflicts in the North East have been resolved. People have chosen the path of peace and given priority to development. I am pleased that recently dialogues have begun with different groups in the hills and valleys for reaching agreements. These efforts are part of the Government of Bharat’s commitment to establishing peace through dialogue, respect, and mutual understanding. I urge all organizations to move forward on the path of peace, fulfil their dreams, and secure the future of their children. Today, I assure you that I am with you, the Government of Bharat is with you, and with the people of Manipur.
Friends,
The Government of Bharat is making every possible effort to restore normalcy in Manipur. Our government is providing assistance to construct seven thousand new homes for families that have been displaced. Recently, a special package of nearly three thousand crore rupees has also been approved. Additionally, a special provision of 500 crore rupees has been made for helping the displaced persons.
Friends,
I am well aware of the dreams and struggles of the tribal youth of Manipur. To address your concerns, various solutions are being worked upon. The government is committed to strengthening the local governance bodies and ensuring the proper allocation of funds for their development.
Friends,
The development of every tribal community today is a priority for the country. For the first time, the 'Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan' is underway to promote development in tribal areas. Under this initiative, development works are being carried out in over 500 villages of Manipur. The number of Eklavya Model Residential Schools is also being increased in tribal areas. In Manipur too, 18 such Eklavya Model Residential Schools are being constructed. The modernization of schools and colleges is set to significantly enhance educational facilities in the hill districts here.
Friends,
The culture of Manipur has always promoted ‘Nari Shakti’ (women’s empowerment). Our government is also actively engaged in empowering women. The government is also constructing working women’s hostels to support the daughters of Manipur.
Friends,
We are moving forward with the goal of making Manipur a symbol of peace, prosperity, and progress. I assure you that the Government of Bharat, along with the Government of Manipur, will continue to cooperate in Manipur’s development, in resettling the displaced people at appropriate locations as soon as possible, and in establishing peace. Once again, I congratulate all of you on the development projects, and I express my heartfelt gratitude to the people of Manipur for the love and respect you have shown. Let us all say together:
Bharat Mata Ki Jai,
Bharat Mata Ki Jai,
Bharat Mata Ki Jai,
Thank you very much.
***
Friends,
Whether it is the freedom movement or nation-building, the people of Mizoram have always come forward to contribute. The ideals of people like Lalnu ropuiliani and Pasalṭha Khuangchera continue to inspire the nation. Sacrifice and service, courage and compassion, these values are at the centre of Mizo society. Today, Mizoram is playing an important role in India’s development journey.
Friends,
This is a historic day for the nation, particularly for the people of Mizoram. From today, Aizawl will be on India’s railway map. A few years ago, I had the opportunity of laying the foundation stone for the Aizawl railway line. And today, we proudly dedicate it to the people of the nation. Overcoming many challenges, including difficult terrain, this Bairabi Sairang railway line has become a reality. The skills of our engineers and the spirit of our workers made this possible.
Friends,
Our hearts have always been/ directly connected with each other. Now, for the first time, Sairang in Mizoram will be connected directly with Delhi by the Rajdhani Express. This is not just a railway connection, but it is a life-line of transformation. It will revolutionise the lives and livelihoods of the people of Mizoram. Farmers and businesses of Mizoram can reach more markets across the nation. People will be able to access more options for education and healthcare. This will also create employment opportunities in tourism, transport and hospitality sectors.
Friends,
For a long time, some political parties in our country practiced vote-bank politics. Their focus was always on places which had more votes and seats. The entire North East, including states like Mizoram, suffered greatly because of this attitude. But our approach is very different. Those who were earlier neglected, are at the forefront now. Those who were once marginalised, are the mainstream now! For the past 11 years, we have been working for the development of the North East. This region is becoming the growth engine of India.
Friends,
Over the years, many states of the North East have been put on the rail map of India for the first time. Rural roads and highways, Mobile connectivity and internet connections, Electricity, tap water and LPG connections, The Government of India has worked hard to strengthen all kinds of connectivity. Mizoram will also benefit from the UDAN scheme for air travel. Soon, helicopter services will begin here. This will improve access to remote areas of Mizoram.
Friends,
Mizoram has a major role in both our Act East Policy and the emerging North East Economic Corridor. With the Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project and Sairang Hmawngbuchhuah Railway line, Mizoram will also get connected to the Bay of Bengal through South East Asia. Due to this, trade and tourism will be boosted across North East India and South East Asia.
Friends,
Mizoram is blessed with talented youth. Our work is to empower them. Our government has already started 11 Eklavya Residential Schools here. Work is going to start at 6 more schools. Our North East is also becoming a major hub for start-ups. I am happy that around 4,500 start-ups and 25 incubators are operating in the region. Young people of Mizoram are actively joining this movement and creating new opportunities for themselves and others.
Friends,
India is quickly becoming an important hub for global sports. This is also creating a sports economy in the country. Mizoram has a wonderful tradition of sports, producing many champions in football and other sports. Our sports policies are benefitting Mizoram as well. Under the Khelo India scheme, we are supporting the creation of modern sports infrastructure. Recently, our government has also come out with a National Sports Policy, Khelo India Khel Niti. This will open new doors of opportunities for the youth of Mizoram.
Friends,
Whether in our country or abroad, it gives me great happiness to play the role of an ambassador of the beautiful culture of the North East. Encouraging platforms that showcase the potential of the North East is important. A few months ago, I had the opportunity to participate in the Ashta Lakshmi Festival in Delhi. It showcased the textiles, crafts, GI-tagged products and tourism potential of the North East. At the Rising North East Summit, I encouraged investors to tap into the potential of the North East. The Summit is opening up the path for massive investments and projects. When I talk about being Vocal for Local, it greatly benefits the artisans and farmers of the North East too. Mizoram’s bamboo products, organic ginger, turmeric and bananas are well-known.
Friends,
We are constantly taking steps to boost Ease of Living and Ease of Doing Business. Recently, next generation GST reforms have been announced. This means lower taxes on many products, making life easier for families. Before 2014 even daily essentials like toothpaste, soap and oil were taxed at 27%. Today, only 5% GST is applicable. During Congress rule, medicines, test kits and insurance policies were heavily taxed. That’s why healthcare was expensive and insurance was out of reach for ordinary families. But today, all these have become affordable. The new GST rates will also make medicines for serious diseases like cancer more inexpensive. After September 22nd, cement and construction materials will also become cheaper. Many companies that manufacture scooters and cars have already reduced prices. I am sure that the festive season this time will be even more vibrant across the nation.
Friends,
As part of the reforms, GST on most hotels has been reduced to only 5%. Travelling to various places, staying in hotels and eating out will become cheaper. This will help more people travel, explore and enjoy different parts of our country. Tourist hubs like the North East will particularly benefit from it.
Friends,
Our economy has seen a growth of 7.8% in the first quarter of 2025-26. It means, India is the fastest growing major economy in the world. We are also seeing the growth of Make In India and exports. During Operation Sindoor, you all saw how our soldiers taught a lesson to those who sponsor terror. The whole nation was filled with a sense of pride about our armed forces. In this operation, Made-In-India weapons played a significant role in protecting our country. The growth of our economy and manufacturing sector is very important for our national security.
Friends,
Our government is committed to the welfare of every citizen, every family and every region. It is through the empowerment of the people that a developed India will be built. In this journey, I am confident that the people of Mizoram will play a very important role. Once again, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you all and welcome Aizawl to the railway map of India. Today, due to the weather, I could not come to Aizawl. But I am sure that we will meet very soon. Thank you!
****