New Delhi: Imphal, the capital of Manipur, is bustling with activity ahead of President Droupadi Murmu’s visit to the state. She will be in Manipur on December 11-12, during which she will be participating in the 86th Nupi Lal Day observance at the Nupi Lal Memorial Complex in Imphal.
The President’s visit will send out a strong message that Manipur is slowly but surely returning to normal after the ethnic strife between the valley-based Meiteis and the Kuki-Zos from the hill districts that claimed over 250 lives and displaced thousands from their homes over the last two years.
The state is under President’s Rule since February this year.
After reaching Manipur on Thursday, the President will be accorded a ceremonial guard of honour before she proceeds to the historic Imphal Polo Ground (Mapal Kangjeibung) to witness a polo exhibition match. The seven-day 15th Manipur International Polo Tournament was held at this ground recently. It is regarded as one of the oldest polo grounds in the world.
In fact, modern Polo is said to have originated in Manipur, where it is known as Sagol Kangjei.
In the evening, the President will attend a civic reception to be hosted by the Manipur government in her honour at the City Convention Centre, Imphal. She will also lay foundation stones and inaugurate various developmental projects on the occasion to underline the Centre’s focus on the region.
Friday’s event is extremely crucial for the state. President Murmu will visit the Nupi Lal Memorial Complex at Imphal and pay her respects to the brave women warriors of Manipur.
Commemorated on December 12 every year, Nupi Lal refers to two women-led movements, held in 1904 and 1939, protesting British colonial policies and asserting the rights and dignity of Manipuri women.
Later, at Senapati, a Naga-inhabited district, she will address a public function, during which she will lay foundation stones and inaugurate various projects for the district.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Manipur on September 13, during which he laid the foundation stones of several development projects for the state.
The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) has hailed the President’s visit, saying that her presence in the state at this critical juncture carries deep significance.
“The Kuki-Zo Council warmly welcomes the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, on her two-day visit to Manipur beginning 11 December 2025. Her presence in the state at this critical juncture carries deep significance and offers hope to many who continue to live with the scars of the ongoing conflict,” Ginza Vulzong, secretary, information and publicity of the KZC, said.
