Union Cabinet Approves Rs 4,800 Crore To Improve Infrastructure In Villages Near China Border

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday (15 February) approved the Centrally Sponsored Scheme- ‘Vibrant Villages Programme’ (VVP) for the Financial Years 2022-23 to 2025-26 with financial allocation of Rs 4,800 crore.

This scheme was launched by the union government to stop emigration from villages along India's border with China, in states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Arunachal Pradesh, by improving the quality of life in these places with infrastructure development, 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 (UT) along the northern land border of the country. In the first phase 663 villages will be taken up in the programme.

Vibrant Village Action Plans will be created by the district administration with the help of Gram Panchayats. Under the programme, 100 per cent saturation of central and state schemes will be ensured.

Key outcomes that have been attempted are, connectivity with all weather roads, drinking water, 24x7 electricity – Solar and wind energy to be given focused attention, mobile and internet connectivity. Tourist centres, multi-purpose centres and health and wellness centres will also be built.

It must be noted that there will not be overlap with the Border Area Development Programme. Out of financial allocation of Rs 4,800 crore, Rs 2,500 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 the northern border,” the Ministry of Home Affairs said.

“It aids in 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 promotion 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,” the ministry added.

VVP was originally  announced in the Finance Minister’s Budget Speech 2022.