New Delhi: The Union Cabinet today 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. Out of the financial allocation of Rs. 4800 crore, 2500 crore rupees will be used for roads.
The VVP envisages comprehensive development of villages of blocks on the northern border thus improving the quality of life of people living in identified border villages.
“This will help in encouraging people to stay in their native locations in border areas and reversing the outmigration from these villages adding to improved security of the border,” the Union Ministry of Home Affairs stated.
The scheme will provide funds for the development of essential infrastructure and the creation of livelihood opportunities in 19 districts and 46 border blocks 4 states and 1 Union Territory along the northern land border of the country which will help in achieving inclusive growth and retaining the populations in the border areas. In the first phase, 663 villages will be taken up in the programme.
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 and the development of growth centres on the “Hub and Spoke Model” through the promotion of social entrepreneurship, empowerment of youth and women through skill development and entrepreneurship, leveraging the tourism potential through the 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, Self Help Groups, and Non-Governmental Organizations.
Vibrant Village Action Plans will be created by the district administration with the help of Gram Panchayats and 100 % saturation of Central and State schemes will be ensured.
Key outcomes that have been attempted are, connectivity with the all-weather roads, drinking water, 24×7 electricity – Solar and wind energy to be given focussed attention, and mobile and internet connectivity. These villages will have tourist centres, multi-purpose centres and health and wellness Centers.
There will not be an overlap with Border Area Development Programme, the Home Ministry stated.
– global bihari bureau
