MAY 23: Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir, Atal Dulloo, conducted a comprehensive review of the Union Territory’s preparedness for the implementation of Phase-II of the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP). In a high-level meeting with senior officials and district administrators, Dulloo emphasized the critical importance of transforming 124 strategically located border villages into self-sustaining centers of development.
The Vibrant Villages Programme, a central government initiative, aims to enhance the quality of life and economic potential in remote border areas. During the review, Dulloo directed officials to adopt a multi-dimensional approach to village development, focusing on infrastructure enhancement, livelihood generation, and the revival of traditional culture and heritage.
Highlighting the strategic and symbolic significance of these border communities, Dulloo stated, “Border villages are our Pratham Gaon – the first villages of India, not the last.” He stressed the need to eliminate the development gap between interior regions and border settlements, urging departments to treat the task with urgency and commitment.
The review included discussions on a range of key interventions such as upgrading road connectivity, improving access to healthcare and education, enhancing digital infrastructure, and promoting sustainable livelihood opportunities, particularly in agriculture, handicrafts, and eco-tourism. Cultural revitalization was also identified as a priority, with plans to preserve local languages, customs, and traditional practices to strengthen community identity.
The Chief Secretary instructed all line departments to prepare detailed action plans with clearly defined timelines and measurable outcomes. He further proposed the establishment of monitoring committees at the district and UT levels to ensure effective implementation and accountability.
Dulloo acknowledged the resilience and patriotism of residents living in the border belts and reiterated the administration’s resolve to make their villages models of inclusive and sustainable development. He called for inter-departmental coordination and active community participation to make Phase-II of the Vibrant Villages Programme a success.
The meeting concluded with the assurance that Jammu and Kashmir will play a leading role in realizing the goals of the Vibrant Villages Programme, contributing not only to local prosperity but also to national security and integrity.