Manipur Governor Highlights Women Empowerment at State Commission Event
In Imphal, Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla emphasized how women empowerment drives India’s growth story. Speaking at the 19th Foundation Day of the Manipur State Commission for Women on Monday, he praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership in rolling out key schemes for women.
Governor Bhalla pointed out popular initiatives like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, which saves and educates the girl child; PM Ujjwala Yojana, providing clean cooking gas to households; PM Mudra Yojana for easy loans to small businesses; Mission Shakti for women’s safety; and Lakhpati Didi, aiming to help women earn over Rs 1 lakh annually. These Central government programs have transformed lives across the country, he noted.
The state government has stepped up too, adopting the Childcare Leave policy. This gives eligible women employees—and even single male parents—up to 730 days of paid leave over their careers to care for kids. It’s a big boost for work-life balance in Manipur.
Bhalla called the 2006 launch of the Manipur State Commission for Women a game-changer. The commission has worked hard ever since, raising awareness, holding talks, solving complaints, and pushing authorities on women’s rights violations. Their efforts ensure women get dignity, safety, and real opportunities.
He spotlighted Manipur’s famous Ima Keithel, the all-women’s market in Imphal, as a symbol of women’s economic strength. "Manipuri women have led in business for generations," Bhalla said. Just recently, PM Modi inaugurated four new Ima Keithels in Tengnoupal, Noney, Pallel, and Moirang. Built at a cost of Rs 24 crore, these markets will create fresh spots for women vendors of all ages to thrive. Known as Ima Markets or Nupi Keithel, they’re run entirely by women and stand out as unique community hubs.
During his visit, PM Modi also kicked off 31 development projects worth Rs 8,500 crore from rallies in Churachandpur and Imphal’s Kangla Fort. These moves show the government’s commitment to Manipur’s progress, especially for women.
Wrapping up his speech, Governor Bhalla urged everyone in Manipur to commit to safe spaces in every town, village, and office. "Let’s build a state where opportunities don’t depend on gender, and every person can dream big and succeed," he said.
Later, Bhalla checked out stalls by women’s self-help groups, praised their handmade products, and cheered their business spirit. He released the bilingual journal "Vision for Women, Volume-VI" and thanked the commission for 19 years of protecting rights and boosting empowerment in the state.
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