Manipur

Manipur is a state in northeastern India. It is bordered by Nagaland to the north, Myanmar to the east, and Assam to the west and south. The capital and largest city is Imphal. The state covers about 22,327 square kilometers and features a mix of hills and the central Imphal Valley. Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in northeast India, lies near Keibul Lamjao National Park, the world's only floating national park.

As of the 2011 census, Manipur had a population of about 2.7 million. The state is ethnically diverse, with Meitei people in the valley and numerous hill tribes such as the Naga and Kuki in the surrounding hills. The official language is Manipuri (Meitei); English is widely used in education and administration. Hinduism is predominant among Meitei; many hill tribes practice Christianity, and Sanamahism is practiced by some Meitei and others.

Historically, Manipur was an independent kingdom until it was merged into India in 1949 and became a full state in 1972. The state is divided into several districts and has a unicameral legislative assembly with 60 seats. The government is headed by a Chief Minister, with a Governor as the ceremonial head.

Culturally, Manipur is known for classical Manipuri dance, martial arts, and diverse folk traditions. Major festivals include Yaoshang and Lai Haraoba. The economy relies on agriculture—rice, pulses, and horticulture—as well as handloom and handicrafts. Tourism is centered on natural and cultural sites, notably Loktak Lake and the nearby Phumdis and the Sangai deer in Keibul Lamjao.

In recent decades, Manipur has faced ethnic and political tensions and periods of unrest, though the government has pursued development and peace efforts. Transport infrastructure includes Imphal's Bir Tikendra Singh Airport and road networks; rail connectivity is under development with the Jiribam–Imphal line planned.