On July 13 in New Delhi, Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a high-level meeting to review the “Vibrant Villages Programme,” with a special focus on the strategic importance of Sikkim and the comprehensive development of India’s border villages. The meeting, held under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, prioritized creating employment opportunities and enhancing connectivity to curb migration from these villages.
Amit Shah emphasized that Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and the Army should support local economies by purchasing agricultural and handicraft products through cooperatives. In Sikkim, over 50 villages are set to benefit from new infrastructure projects, including 4G connectivity and all-weather roads, to boost tourism and economic activities. Nationwide, the government has approved more than 600 projects aimed at generating employment, showcasing its dedication to this cause.
Shah stressed the importance of continuous reviews and the active involvement of senior ministers and officials in tackling issues in border villages. To date, more than 6,000 events, such as service delivery and awareness camps, have been organized under the programme. He also advocated for utilizing Army and CAPF healthcare facilities to benefit nearby village residents, ensuring improved healthcare access.
The discussion prominently featured the promotion of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power to align with sustainable development goals in these remote areas. Launched on February 14, 2023, with a budget of Rs 4,800 crore, the “Vibrant Villages Programme” aims to transform 136 border villages through 113 all-weather road projects worth Rs 2,420 crore. By December 2024, these villages will be equipped with 4G network coverage, and financial inclusion will be enhanced through India Post-Payment Banks (IPPB).
The meeting included senior officers from the Ministry of Home Affairs, such as the Union Home Secretary, Secretary of Border Management, and the Director General of Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP). Discussions also covered developing tourist circuits and related infrastructure in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism to bring vibrancy to these border areas.
