IMPHAL: Prime Minister Manmohon Singh said on Sunday that the Congress was the only party that cared for the poor and tribal people. Besides, only the party could ensure a stable government in Manipur and take it forward in the path of development.

Addressing an election meeting in Tamenglong district of Manipur , he highlighted the commendable works done by the Congress-led Secular Progessive Front Ministry in the last five years.

The Central and the State Governments were giving importance on development of roads in the State, which has no railway lines. The NH 53 would be improved and works in this regard had begun. The bridges over the Barak and the Makru rivers have been restored.

Referring to education, he said the Manipur University had been upgraded to a Central university. Hundreds of crores of rupees had been released so that students could pursue their education in all fields.

Power crisis

Dr. Singh said that since Manipur was facing power crisis, the Government had started works in the Lotak downstream project.

Besides, the construction work on the 1,500 MW Tipaimukh dam had begun. The State would have surplus power in the foreseeable future.

Extolling the performance of the talented sportspersons of the State, the Prime Minister said the Government would always extend help to talented boys and girls.

He said the UPA Government at the Centre and the Manipur Government were committed to the development of the State. Manipur had not been neglected since the days of Nehru, Indira Gandhi. Now Sonia Gandhi cared a lot for the State people.

Without stability no developmental works could be undertaken. Manipur could be converted to a mini-Switzerland. Dr. Singh came for electioneering for the third and final round of polls on February 23. Earlier, thousands of Zeliangrong tribals in thier traditional colourful dress welcomed Dr. Singh, Union Labour Minister Oscar fernandes and the Chief Minister Okram Ibobi at the venue of the meeting.

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