Source: PIB
Context:
- The Union Home Minister launched the Vibrant Villages Programme–II (VVP-II) in Nathanpur village, Cachar district, Assam.
- The programme focuses on comprehensive development of villages located along India’s international land borders.
What is VVP-II?
- A Central Sector Scheme aimed at developing villages in blocks adjoining India’s International Land Borders (ILBs), excluding northern border areas already covered under Vibrant Villages Programme-I.
- Designed to improve infrastructure, livelihoods, and integration of border communities.
Launch and Duration
- Approved for implementation during FY 2024-25 to 2025-26, with financial support up to FY 2028-29.
- Officially launched in February 2026 in Assam.
Background
- 1986-87: Border Area Development Programme (BADP) launched to address infrastructure gaps.
- Persistent issues of migration, livelihood insecurity, and underdevelopment in border regions.
- 2023: Vibrant Villages Programme-I launched for northern border areas.
- VVP-II: Extends the model to other international land borders such as Indo-Bangladesh, Indo-Nepal, Indo-Myanmar, Indo-Bhutan, and Indo-Pakistan.
Objectives
- Bridge infrastructure gaps and improve living standards in border villages.
- Generate sustainable livelihood opportunities.
- Integrate border communities with mainstream development.
- Strengthen border security by empowering local populations as “eyes and ears” of border guarding forces.
Key Features
- Total outlay: ₹6,839 crore up to FY 2028-29.
- Coverage: 15 States and 2 Union Territories.
- Identification of 1,954 strategic villages for intensive development.
- Saturation-based approach to ensure all eligible households benefit from government schemes.
- Convergence model integrating multiple flagship schemes.
