Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 19 Nov: Rural Development Minister Ganesh Joshi received a detailed progress report on the Vibrant Village Programme (VVP) from the Commissioner, Rural Development, today. Emphasising effective implementation, extensive publicity, and timely action, the Minister highlighted the need for the holistic development of border villages.
Minister Ganesh Joshi stated that, under the Government of India’s Vibrant Village Programme (VVP), aimed at strengthening infrastructure, generating livelihood opportunities, and preventing out-migration in border areas, a total of 91 villages located along the India–China and India–Nepal borders in Uttarakhand have been selected. The objective of the programme is to develop these remote border villages as model villages, providing residents with a higher quality of life, better facilities, and employment opportunities.
Under VVP-1, 51 villages have been selected along the India–China Border. In districts adjoining the India–China border, the numbers are: Uttarkashi (Bhatwari Block) – 10 villages; Chamoli (Joshimath Block) – 14 villages; Pithoragarh – Munsyari: 8 villages; Dharchula: 17 villages; Kanalichhina: 2 villages. A total of 51 villages have been selected under VVP-1.
To strengthen economic activities, develop connectivity, promote local culture and tourism, and enhance modern amenities in these villages, the State Government had submitted proposals worth RS 520.13 crore to the Ministry of Home Affairs, out of which more than Rs 110 crore has already been released to the state.
In VVP-2 category, 40 villages have been included along the India–Nepal Border. These are Champawat – 11 villages; Pithoragarh – 24 villages; Udham Singh Nagar – 6 villages. Data collection and verification for these villages are currently underway.
Under the road component of VVP, Rs 119.44 crore has been approved for the construction of five PMGSY roads in Pithoragarh district. This is expected to significantly enhance mobility, trade, and strategic connectivity in the border regions.
Minister Joshi expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that the Prime Minister’s special concern for border villages is truly inspiring. Referring to the PM’s message of calling Mana, “the first village of India, not the last,” he said it reflects the Prime Minister’s deep sensitivity towards Uttarakhand.
The Minister claimed that the Vibrant Village Programme will bring modern amenities, sustainable livelihoods, improved agriculture and horticulture, a secure environment, and a tourism-driven economy to remote villages. He further stated that the effective implementation of the programme will help curb migration and strengthen national security.
He expressed confidence that this initiative will prove to be a milestone in transforming Uttarakhand’s border villages into self-reliant, secure, and advanced model villages.
