The Union Cabinet approves Centrally Sponsored Scheme- “Vibrant Villages Programme” for border villages
Introduction
The Government of India has taken a significant step towards the development of villages on the northern border with the approval of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme- “Vibrant Villages Programme” (VVP). The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the Centrally Sponsored Scheme- “Vibrant Villages Programme” (VVP) for the Financial Years 2022-23 to 2025-26 with a financial allocation of Rs. 4800 Crore. The scheme is aimed at comprehensive development of villages of blocks on the northern border to improve the quality of life of people living in identified border villages.
Development of essential infrastructure and creation of livelihood opportunities
The scheme will provide funds for the development of essential infrastructure and the creation of livelihood opportunities in 19 districts and 46 border blocks across four states and one UT along the northern land border of the country. This will help achieve inclusive growth and retain the population in the border areas. In the first phase, 663 villages will be taken up in the programme.
Identification and development of economic drivers in border villages
The scheme aims to identify and develop the economic drivers based on local natural, human, and other resources of the border villages on the northern border. It also seeks to develop growth centers on the “Hub and Spoke Model” through the promotion of social entrepreneurship, the empowerment of youth and women through skill development and entrepreneurship, leveraging the tourism potential, and the development of sustainable eco-agribusinesses.
Creation of Vibrant Village Action Plans
Vibrant Village Action Plans will be created by the district administration with the help of Gram Panchayats. The scheme aims to ensure 100% saturation of central and state schemes, with a focus on providing connectivity with all-weather roads, drinking water, 24×7 electricity, and mobile and internet connectivity. It also seeks to establish tourist centers, multi-purpose centers, and health and wellness centers.
No overlap with Border Area Development Programme
The Vibrant Villages Programme will not overlap with the Border Area Development Programme. Out of the financial allocation of Rs. 4800 Crore, Rs. 2500 Crore will be used for roads.
Key outcomes
The key outcomes of the scheme are to encourage people to stay in their native locations in border areas, reversing the outmigration from these villages, adding to improved security of the border. The scheme aims to promote social entrepreneurship, empower youth and women, and develop sustainable eco-agribusinesses while leveraging the tourism potential of the area. It also seeks to provide essential infrastructure and create livelihood opportunities to achieve inclusive growth and retain the population in the border areas.
(India CSR)
