Source: PIB
Context: The Union Cabinet has approved Vibrant Villages Programme-II (VVP-II) with a financial outlay of ₹6,839 crore for the period 2024-25 to 2028-29, covering border villages beyond Northern borders to ensure security, development, and national integration.
About Vibrant Villages Programme-II (VVP-II):
- What is VVP-II?
- VVP-II is a Central Sector Scheme (100% Centre-funded) focused on comprehensive development of strategic villages near international land borders (ILBs), other than Northern borders already covered under VVP-I.
- About Vibrant Villages Programme
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- VVP-I launched: February 2023
- Ministry in Charge: Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)
- Vision Aligned with: Viksit Bharat@2047 and ‘Safe, Secure & Vibrant Borders’
- Objectives of VVP-II:
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- Enhance quality of life in border villages.
- Create livelihood opportunities for border residents.
- Ensure national security by involving locals as eyes and ears of border forces.
- Curb trans-border crimes and promote border integrity.
- Strengthen connectivity and governance in strategic regions
- Key Features of VVP-II:
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- Coverage: 17 States/UTs including Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Punjab, Gujarat, J&K, Ladakh, etc.
- Village Action Plans (VAPs): Developed with community participation.
- Basic Services Saturation: Focus on 4 key areas – all-weather roads (via PMGSY-IV), telecom, TV access, and electrification.
- Livelihood Opportunities: Boost rural income through cooperatives, SHGs, tourism, and handicraft promotion.
- Infrastructure Development: Includes SMART classrooms, village facilities, and cluster-based projects.
- Governance Support: A Cabinet Secretary-led committee to ease rules for effective implementation.
- Cultural and National Integration: Organizing fairs, festivals, and official visits to promote national unity and cultural vibrancy.
