Centre Expands Vibrant Village Scheme to Indo-Myanmar and Indo-Bhutan Borders

 New Delhi:In a major policy development, the Government of India has broadened the scope of the Vibrant Village Programme Phase-II (VVP-II), extending its coverage to villages located along the Indo-Myanmar and Indo-Bhutan borders. This marks a strategic expansion from its earlier China-centric focus, aiming for comprehensive development across all international frontiers.The move follows sustained advocacy from Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, who have long highlighted the critical need for balanced development in the border districts of Arunachal Pradesh. The state shares international borders with China, Bhutan, and Myanmar, making it a focal point of India's border development policies.With the inclusion of the Indo-Myanmar and Indo-Bhutan borders, remote districts such as Tirap, Changlang, and Longding in eastern Arunachal Pradesh are set to benefit from targeted development initiatives. These include improved infrastructure, enhanced road connectivity, better healthcare and education facilities, and livelihood support systems aimed at empowering border communities.Chief Minister Khandu welcomed the Centre’s decision, calling it a “historic breakthrough” that would help transform border villages into hubs of growth and security. “This initiative not only promotes inclusive development but also enhances national security by strengthening the presence of resilient communities at the frontier,” he stated.The updated VVP-II framework places special emphasis on reducing migration from remote villages by offering better opportunities and living standards. It also seeks to foster local economic development and increase integration of these areas with the national mainstream.In addition to increased financial allocations, villages under the revised scheme will receive regular monitoring and assistance to ensure sustained progress. The scheme’s expansion is being seen as a key step toward bridging the developmental gap in far-flung border areas and reinforcing India’s commitment to inclusive growth and territorial integrity.The implementation of VVP-II in these new regions is expected to not only improve the quality of life for residents but also contribute to national strategic interests by stabilizing and developing sensitive border zones.