"Manipur can be ‘Heaven on Earth’ with peace": Deputy CM Losii Dikho

Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho on April 27 said Manipur has the potential to become a “heaven on earth” if lasting peace is established, underscoring stability as the key to unlocking the state’s natural and human resources.

Dikho made the remarks while addressing the launch of the 7th State Level Media Fellowship on Climate Change Reporting (2026–27) at the Civil Secretariat in Mantripukhri, Imphal East. The programme was organised by the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change.

Speaking as chief guest, Dikho, who also holds the Forest, Environment and Climate Change portfolio, described Manipur as a state endowed with rich land resources, diverse landscapes of hills and valleys, and a dynamic population with significant potential. However, he noted that the absence of sustained peace has placed the state in a difficult situation.

He stated that despite various efforts and proposals aimed at resolving the state’s challenges, a comprehensive solution has remained elusive. Emphasising reconciliation, Dikho said that peace can be achieved through mutual understanding and cooperation, adding that social harmony is essential for long-term stability.

Highlighting the link between peace and development, he said that regions with stability tend to attract visitors and investment. He urged citizens and stakeholders to work collectively to restore normalcy so that the state’s tourism and economic potential can be fully realised.

Dikho also commended the initiative to support journalism on environmental issues, noting that climate change is an observable reality and that the media plays a critical role in addressing it through informed reporting.

Director of Environment and Climate Change T Brajakumar said the fellowship programme, launched in 2018, aims to strengthen climate change reporting by engaging journalists as key stakeholders. He noted that 48 media fellows have been supported under the initiative so far, resulting in the publication of over 130 articles, several of which have contributed to policymaking and government programmes.

Brajakumar emphasised that journalistic coverage is instrumental in highlighting ground realities and shaping policy responses. He encouraged media professionals to give climate change reporting similar importance as coverage of crime and politics.

A total of 10 journalists have been selected for the 2026–27 fellowship cycle.