Vibrant Villages Programme Phase Two Approved

The Union Cabinet of India has recently approved the second phase of the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP). This phase focuses on the comprehensive development of strategic villages along international land borders. The total financial outlay for this initiative is ₹6,839 crore. The programme aims to enhance living conditions and livelihood opportunities in border areas, ensuring safety and prosperity.

Objectives

The primary goal of VVP is to improve the quality of life in border villages. It seeks to create sustainable livelihood opportunities. The programme is designed to control trans-border crime and integrate the border population into national frameworks. This integration is vital for enhancing internal security. The villagers will serve as the “eyes and ears” for border guarding forces.

Funding and Implementation

VVP-II is a 100% Central Sector Scheme. It will receive full funding from the Union government. The programme will be operational until the financial year 2028-29. The implementation will focus on specific strategic villages in various states. These include Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Jammu and Kashmir, and others.

Infrastructure Development

Infrastructure is component of VVP-II. The programme will fund the development of roads, telecom connections, and electricity. All-weather road connectivity will be established under PMGSY-IV. A high-powered committee will oversee the implementation and may relax guidelines for efficiency.

Community Engagement and Activities

Community engagement is crucial for the success of VVP-II. The programme will organise fairs, festivals, and awareness camps. These activities will promote local culture and heritage. Regular visits by government officials will strengthen ties between the government and local populations.

Education and Livelihood Initiatives

Education infrastructure will also be enhanced. SMART classes and other educational facilities will be developed. The programme aims to create diverse livelihood opportunities through cooperatives and self-help groups. This approach will ensure that the benefits reach the grassroots level.

Tourism Development

VVP-II will promote tourism in border villages. By developing tourism circuits, the programme aims to boost local economies. This will create job opportunities and encourage cultural exchange. The focus will be on sustainable tourism that respects local heritage.

Monitoring and Evaluation

The programme will utilise Village Action Plans for targeted interventions. These plans will be developed collaboratively with local communities. Monitoring will ensure that the objectives are met and adjustments can be made as necessary.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Point out the significance of infrastructure development in border areas for national security.
2. Critically analyse the role of local communities in the implementation of government schemes like the Vibrant Villages Programme.
3. Estimate the potential impact of tourism development on the economy of border villages.
4. What are the challenges in ensuring effective communication and connectivity in remote border areas? How can these challenges be addressed?

Answer Hints:

1. Point out the significance of infrastructure development in border areas for national security.

1. Infrastructure enhances mobility for security forces, enabling rapid response to threats.
2. Improved roads and communication networks facilitate effective surveillance and border management.
3. Better living conditions in border areas can deter migration and promote stability.
4. Infrastructure development encourages economic growth, reducing the appeal of extremist influences.
5. It strengthens the integration of border populations with national frameworks, enhancing loyalty and security.

2. Critically analyse the role of local communities in the implementation of government schemes like the Vibrant Villages Programme.

1. Local communities provide essential vital information about their needs, ensuring relevant scheme design.
2. Community engagement encourages ownership, increasing the likelihood of successful implementation.
3. Participation in decision-making enhances transparency and accountability in project execution.
4. Local knowledge can lead to innovative solutions tailored to specific challenges in border areas.
5. Community involvement can strengthen social cohesion and resilience against external threats.

3. Estimate the potential impact of tourism development on the economy of border villages.

1. Tourism can create job opportunities, reducing unemployment and boosting local incomes.
2. Increased visitor spending can stimulate local businesses and promote entrepreneurship.
3. Tourism development encourages preservation of local culture and heritage, enhancing community pride.
4. Infrastructure improvements for tourism can benefit residents through better services.
5. Sustainable tourism initiatives can ensure long-term economic benefits without harming the environment.

4. What are the challenges in ensuring effective communication and connectivity in remote border areas? How can these challenges be addressed?

1. Geographical barriers, such as mountains and rivers, complicate infrastructure development.
2. Limited financial resources can hinder the establishment of reliable communication networks.
3. Harsh weather conditions can damage existing infrastructure, disrupting connectivity.
4. Community engagement is critical; local input can help identify the most effective solutions.
5. Government partnerships with private sectors can bring in expertise and investment for better connectivity.