In a pivotal move aimed at transforming the infrastructural landscape of Arunachal Pradesh, the central government has approved the construction of an extensive 1022-km-long network of roads under the Vibrant Village Programme (VVP). The announcement, made by Chief Minister Pema Khandu, highlights the strategic importance of enhancing last-mile connectivity in the far-flung regions of the state.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has sanctioned a total of 105 road projects along the Arunachal Pradesh-China border, as part of the VVP, a central government initiative designed to facilitate all-encompassing development in selected villages located in frontier areas. The ambitious undertaking is estimated to cost Rs. 2,205.19 crore, with the central government contributing Rs. 1,984.67 crore and the state allocating Rs. 220.51 crore. The average cost per kilometer is projected at Rs. 215.69 lahks.
Launched in February 2023 with a financial outlay of Rs. 4,800 crore spanning 2022-23 to 2025-26, the VVP is a comprehensive development program targeting villages in 46 blocks across 19 districts adjacent to the northern border in states like Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, and the Union Territory of Ladakh.
The primary objective of the Vibrant Village Programme is to uplift the quality of life in these villages, subsequently curbing outmigration. The program focuses on specific interventions, including the promotion of agriculture, horticulture, tourism, and cultural heritage to generate livelihood opportunities. Officials indicate that additional activities under the VVP encompass skill development, entrepreneurship, cooperative societies management for livelihood opportunities, road connectivity, housing, village infrastructure, energy, including renewable energy, television and telecom connectivity, and financial inclusion.
This substantial investment in the infrastructure of Arunachal Pradesh is poised to bring about transformative changes, providing not only physical connectivity but also fostering economic growth and development in the region. The approval of these road projects signifies a concerted effort towards holistic progress and sustainable development in one of India’s most geographically challenging yet culturally rich states.
