Context:

The Union Cabinet has approved the second phase of the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP-II) as a central sector scheme with 100% central funding, aimed at the comprehensive development of strategically located villages along India's international borders. This initiative aligns with the government’s vision of Viksit Bharat@2047, ensuring safe, secure, and vibrant land borders.

What is VVP-II?

The Vibrant Villages Programme-II (VVP-II) is a 100% centrally funded scheme focused on the development of strategic villages along international land borders (ILBs). Unlike VVP-I, which was dedicated to northern border regions, VVP-II extends its scope to other border areas across 17 states and union territories.

Objectives of VVP-II

1.    Develop Infrastructure – Improve roads, communication networks, and essential services in strategic border villages.

2.    Enhance Livelihoods – Create better living conditions and economic opportunities for border populations.

3.    Strengthen Border Security – Integrate border communities into national security frameworks.

4.    Prevent Crime – Curb trans-border crimes through community participation and improved policing.

5.    Promote National Integration – Encourage border populations to serve as "eyes and ears" of border guarding forces, fostering national unity.

Financial Allocation and Implementation

With a total budget of ₹6,839 crore, VVP-II will be implemented until 2028-29 and will cover strategic villages in 17 Indian states and union territories that were not included in VVP-I.

States and Union Territories Covered

• Northeastern states: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura
• Northern and Himalayan states: Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Uttarakhand
• Western and border states: Gujarat, Punjab, Rajasthan
• Eastern and central states: Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal

Background: Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP-I & II)

VVP-I (First Phase)

• Launched: February 2023
• Ministry in Charge: Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)
• Focus: Development of villages along northern borders (China-facing states like Arunachal Pradesh, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh).

VVP-II (Second Phase)

• Approved: April 2025
• Focus: Comprehensive development of strategic villages along ILBs, excluding those covered in VVP-I.
• Vision Aligned with: Viksit Bharat@2047 and the goal of ‘Safe, Secure & Vibrant Borders’.

Government's Vision and Strategic Importance

Union Home Minister Amit Shah described VVP-II as a transformative initiative that will turn border villages into hubs of growth and development. The programme is expected to fortify India’s border security while ensuring inclusive economic growth for communities in remote areas.

Investments in modern infrastructure, economic upliftment, and security under VVP-II aim to prevent migration from border areas, ensuring that border villages remain populated and active, which is crucial for territorial integrity and national security.

Conclusion

The Vibrant Villages Programme-II is a strategic initiative that seeks to develop India’s border regions while integrating them into the national economic framework. By enhancing infrastructure, creating livelihood opportunities, and strengthening security, VVP-II aligns with India's broader vision of socio-economic transformation and national security enhancement by 2047.