Union Home Minister Amit Shah will inaugurate the second phase of the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP-II) in Assam on February 20. This significant initiative aims to bolster infrastructure and security in India’s border areas. The official launch is slated to take place in Nathanpur village, located in the Cachar district.
Financial Commitment and Coverage Details
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has announced that VVP-II will be executed as a Central sector scheme, with a total financial outlay of ₹6,839 crore, projected to extend until the financial year 2028-29. The programme will encompass border villages across 15 states and two Union Territories, reinforcing the government’s commitment to fostering inclusive development in strategically sensitive and often remote areas.
Comprehensive Development Objectives
MHA officials outlined that VVP-II is designed as a holistic initiative intended to achieve saturation-based development for villages situated along international borders. The scheme aims to enhance critical infrastructure and improve access to basic services, including healthcare, education, road connectivity, and telecommunications. Additionally, it focuses on creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local residents, aligning with the broader goal of cultivating secure and prosperous border communities.
Expansion of the Programme’s Reach
This second phase builds upon the groundwork established by the initial phase of the Vibrant Villages Programme, which concentrated primarily on villages located along northern borders. VVP-II expands its scope to other border regions, particularly in the Northeast, where historical challenges in connectivity and development have been significant barriers to progress.
Convergence Approach for Enhanced Impact
The scheme is set to utilize a convergence-driven methodology, integrating various central and state government initiatives to ensure that all eligible households benefit. By tackling infrastructure shortcomings and promoting self-reliance, the goal is to reduce migration from border areas, encouraging residents to maintain their ties to their native villages.
Strategic Importance for National Security
Beyond development, the programme carries strategic significance. Strengthening and populating border villages is expected to enhance national security, as residents are positioned to act as vigilant stakeholders, thereby assisting in the prevention of cross-border crimes, illegal infiltrations, and other security threats.
Focus on Northeast as a Strategic Pillar
The launch of VVP-II in Assam reflects the government’s prioritization of the Northeast as a vital component of India’s broader security and growth strategy. Through improved connectivity, livelihood creation, and enhancement of social infrastructure, the initiative strives to transform border villages into dynamic centers of development while reinforcing the country’s internal and border security architecture.
Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!
App Store – https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540
Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share