Govt launches Vibrant Villages Programme 2.0

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

• VVP-I launched in February 2023

• Ministry in Charge: Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)

• Vision Aligned with: Viksit Bharat@2047 and ‘Safe, Secure & Vibrant Borders’ Vibrant Villages Programme

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.

Objectives of VVP-II:

• 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:

• 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