The ‘Vibrant Villages Programme’ scheme has been approved by the central government as a centrally-sponsored initiative for promoting the comprehensive development of villages located along the northern border in 19 districts of four States and one Union Territory - namely, Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand and Ladakh (UT) across 46 border blocks.

All villages are going to be benefited from an inclusive growth of villages on the Northern border, improved quality of life, and reverse outmigration. Amongst all the villages under this scheme, highlighting the 'Vibrant Villages Programme’ that is implemented in the state of Arunachal Pradesh.

The "Vibrant Villages" program, launched by the Indian government to enhance rural development, has chosen five village clusters in Arunachal Pradesh as its pilot initiatives. These clusters will set an example for other rural areas to follow as they strive toward development. Here focusing on the specifics of the chosen Arunachal Pradesh village clusters for the "Vibrant Villages" pilot program.

Zemithang, Tawang:

Zemithang is a picturesque village located in the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh. The village is situated at an altitude of 8000 feet and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The village is famous for its natural beauty and is also an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

The government has selected Zemithang as a pilot program for vibrant villages due to its potential for eco-tourism, which could provide a sustainable source of income for the locals. Also, the government plans to provide better infrastructure, such as roads and electricity to the village, which will help in the development of the area.

Taksing, Upper Subansiri:

Taksing is a remote village in Upper Subansiri, Arunachal Pradesh. The village is located in a valley surrounded by mountains and is accessible only by foot or helicopter. The government has selected Taksing for the pilot program because of its remoteness and lack of infrastructure.

The government plans to provide better healthcare and education facilities to the village, which will improve the quality of life of its residents.

Tuting, Upper Siang:

Tuting is a small town in the Upper Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh. It is located on the banks of the Siang River, which is a major tributary of the Brahmaputra. The town is surrounded by scenic hills and valleys, and it is home to several ethnic groups, including the Adi, Mishmi, and Tangsa communities.

Tuting has been selected as a pilot village cluster for its potential for eco-tourism, which can be a source of livelihood for the local people. The government plans to develop infrastructure for tourism, such as accommodation, transport, and other amenities.

Kibithoo Kaho Meshai Cluster, Anjaw:

These villages are located in the remote Anjaw district, which is known for its rugged terrain and challenging living conditions. Despite the challenges, the people of that region have a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community.

The three villages of Anjaw that are chosen to be developed as model villages as a part of a pilot project are Kaho, Kibithoo, and Meshai. So, the focus on these places are mainly on upgrading roads and bridges to improve connectivity and provision of basic amenities like drinking water, power, healthcare services, and education.

Chayangtajo, East Kameng:

Chayangtajo is a small town in the East Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh. The town serves as a gateway to some of the most beautiful and remote regions of the state. However, the town itself faces numerous challenges, including a lack of infrastructure, inadequate healthcare facilities, and limited access to education and employment opportunities.

Therefore, as part of the Vibrant Villages program, the government aims to transform Chayangtajo into a model town by providing the following support such as upgrading roads and other infrastructure, improving connectivity, healthcare facilities, education, drinking water and electricity, etc.

Some of the Fruitful Outcomes of this Program

The state of Arunachal Pradesh has witnessed successful outcomes from its program, which includes the creation of basic facilities and livelihood opportunities in border villages. As a result of this initiative, villages near the China border at Mipi circle in the Dibang Valley District are experiencing reverse migration, with residents returning to their native villages due to improved road connectivity.

In collaboration with the District Administration, The Indian Army organized a free medical camp under the #VibrantVillageProgram at Chayangtajo, East Kameng. Around 220 locals received medical and dental checkups, treatments, and medications in the camp.

About 276 patients were facilitated with treatment, a free medication lab facility, and ultrasonography by the District Health Society (MMRKK) which organized a free health camp in Zemithang, Tawang, under the #VibrantVillageProgram.

Under the aegis of the #Vibrant VillageProgram, a 'Seema Darshan' tour was organized by the 55th battalion ITBP, for the local administration representatives, teachers, & students. The program was aimed to enhance knowledge and infrastructure in villages in the border areas.

The 6th SAD(SevaAapkeDwar) camp took place in Zemithang, Tawang, as part of the #VibrantVillageProgram. The program was inaugurated by the DC Tawang and involved distributing walnut-grafted plants imported from Turkey to farmers. Additionally, various government departments provided services and facilities to the farmers.

Thus, the Vibrant Villages program aims to promote sustainable development and rural prosperity in 46 border blocks across 19 districts in four Indian States and one Union Territory, and by selecting these village clusters as participants, the government hopes to showcase the attainability of these goals. If the program succeeds, it could potentially serve as a blueprint for other regions and countries grappling with comparable challenges.