In a bid to improve security in the border areas and ensure development, the Union cabinet approved a centrally sponsored scheme, Vibrant Villages Programme, for three years with a financial allocation of Rs 4,800 crore.
The scheme aims to comprehensive development of identified villages on the northern border thus improving the quality of life of people living in these villages.
"This will help in encouraging people to stay in their native locations in border areas and reversing the out-migration from these villages, adding to improved security of the border. The scheme will provide funds for development of essential infrastructure and creation of livelihood opportunities in 19 districts and 46 border blocks in four states and one Union Territory along the northern land border of the country. It will help in achieving inclusive growth and retaining the population in the border areas. In the first phase, 663 villages will be taken up in the programme," Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur said.
The scheme will also expected to encourage tourism in these villages. The key outcomes that have been attempted are: connectivity with all-weather road, drinking water, 24x7 electricity, solar and wind energy, and mobile and internet connectivity. It also aims to develop tourist centers, multi-purpose centers and health and wellness centers.
Under the scheme, 'Vibrant Village Action Plans' will be created by the district administration with the help of Gram Panchayats where 100 per cent saturation of central and state schemes will be ensured. There will not be overlap with Border Area Development Programme. Out of the total financial allocation of Rs 4,800 crore, Rs 2500 crore will be used for roads.
“The scheme aids to identify and develop the economic drivers based on local natural human and other resources of the border villages on northern border and development of growth centres on “Hub and Spoke Model” through promotion of social entrepreneurship, empowerment of youth and women through skill development and entrepreneurship, leveraging the tourism potential through promotioon of local cultural, traditional knowledge and heritage and development of sustainable eco-agribusinesses on the concept of “One village-One product” through community based organisations, Cooperatives, SHGs, NGOs etc,” said an official statement.
The Vibrant Villages Programme was announced in the 2022 budget. The programme envisages coverage of border villages on northern border having sparse population, limited connectivity and infrastructure, which often get left out from the development gains. The scheme has been approved for the financial years 2022-23 to 2025-26.
