New Delhi: The Central Government has approved a major infrastructure initiative worth ₹2,481.93 crore to improve connectivity and essential services in villages located along the India-China border. Under the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP), the Ministry of Home Affairs has sanctioned 111 road projects that will provide all weather road connectivity to 134 villages that currently lack reliable access.
The road projects are aimed at improving transportation, boosting regional development, and ensuring better access to remote border settlements throughout the year. The initiative forms part of the government’s broader effort to strengthen infrastructure and improve living conditions in strategically important frontier areas.
Along with road development, significant progress has been made in expanding basic amenities across border villages. A total of 528 villages have now been connected with 4G mobile services, enhancing digital connectivity and communication. In addition, 625 villages have been provided with piped drinking water, while 621 villages now have access to electricity through either on grid or off grid power systems.
The programme also includes a strong focus on renewable energy. Authorities have approved 140 off grid solar projects and seven micro hydel projects to ensure sustainable electricity supply in remote locations where conventional infrastructure remains difficult to establish.
To further improve the power network, the Ministry of Power has sanctioned 43 projects worth ₹238.30 crore for strengthening electricity distribution infrastructure in these border regions.
Healthcare and education have also received a boost under the initiative. Forty mobile medical units have been approved for Arunachal Pradesh to improve healthcare access in remote communities. Additionally, 146 projects have been sanctioned for the construction and upgradation of school infrastructure, aiming to provide better educational facilities for students living in border villages.
The comprehensive package is expected to enhance connectivity, improve public services, and support long term development while strengthening the resilience of communities living along India’s border with China.
