To Counter China, Union Budget Allocates Rs 1,050 Crore For Vibrant Villages Programme For Border Infrastructure Development

In line with the government's push for comprehensive development of remote border villages near China, the Union Budget has allocated Rs 1,050 crore to the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP).

This programme aims to benefit select villages across 19 districts in Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh, according to a report from The Economic Times.

Approved as a centrally-sponsored scheme on 15 February 2023, the VVP has a total outlay of Rs 4,800 crore for the period 2022-23 to 2025-26. It focuses on developing 46 blocks along the northern border.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in her recent budget allocation 2024-25 has demarcated Rs 1,050 crore for VVP.

The programme's goal is to enhance the quality of life in these villages and reverse out-migration by creating livelihood opportunities in agriculture, horticulture, tourism, cultural heritage, skill development, and entrepreneurship.

Additional areas of focus include road connectivity, housing, renewable energy, telecom connectivity and financial inclusion.

To date, the VVP has facilitated connectivity in 136 border villages through 113 all-weather road projects costing Rs 2,420 crore. Efforts are underway to ensure all villages under the VVP have 4G connectivity by December.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah reviewed the programme's implementation on 13 July, emphasising the importance of providing employment opportunities and enhancing connectivity to prevent migration.

Shah also directed authorities to continue engaging with border villages to address their issues and suggested that the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and the army support local agricultural and handicraft cooperatives. Additionally, he recommended making army and CAPF healthcare facilities regularly available to nearby village residents.