In a decisive response to China’s controversial maneuvers to establish artificial border villages in disputed territories, Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein has announced plans to lobby the Indian government for the extension of the Vibrant Village Programme (VVP) to include the India-Myanmar and India-Bhutan borders. This proactive initiative signals India’s intent to counter China’s expansionist strategies, particularly its establishment of dubious villages in the contested regions of Tibet, aimed at asserting control through questionable methods.
Launched by the Ministry of Home Affairs on April 10, 2023, the VVP was initially designed to prioritize development along India’s northern border with China, focusing on key villages in Arunachal Pradesh. With a robust budget of ₹2,205 crore, the programme aims to construct 105 roads across 1,022 kilometers, connecting 125 villages. Additionally, ₹104.99 crore has been allocated for 187 development projects in 156 villages within the first phase, reflecting a significant investment in national security and economic growth in these often-neglected border regions.
However, many communities along the northern, eastern, and western stretches of Arunachal Pradesh still lie beyond the scope of the VVP. In a bid to bring these areas into the fold, the Arunachal Pradesh government has actively sought inclusion through supplementary schemes provided by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) and the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD).
The government’s initiative to expand the VVP to encompass the India-Myanmar and India-Bhutan borders signifies a dual focus on local development and a robust counter-strategy to China’s territorial ambitions. Recently, China has attempted to fortify its claims by constructing “fake border villages” (e.g. Xiao Gang Village) in the disputed regions. India’s decision to extend the VVP sends a resolute message: India will not remain passive in the face of such provocations, instead committing to the development of its border communities through enhanced infrastructure, connectivity, and security measures.
To further bolster border infrastructure, the central government has also approved 22 connectivity projects and 212 additional infrastructure initiatives under the Northeast Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NSIDS). These efforts are geared toward improving transportation and economic development in remote border areas, ensuring these regions receive vital attention within the national development agenda.
This push for the VVP’s expansion reflects India’s steadfast dedication to securing its borders and fostering prosperity among its border communities. By broadening the programme to include the frontiers with Myanmar and Bhutan, India broadcasts a powerful assertion of its sovereignty, resilience, and unwavering determination to confront any challenges to its territorial integrity.
While China’s approach relies on artificial constructions to create an illusion of control over contested territories, India prioritizes sustainable development and genuine welfare for the inhabitants of its border regions. The government’s strategy is clear: to empower these strategic areas, elevate the quality of life for border residents, and ensure that all of India’s border regions receive critical attention in terms of development and security.
The expansion of the VVP stands as a direct rebuttal to China’s manipulative border tactics, underscoring India’s commitment to safeguarding its territorial sovereignty through real development rather than hollow claims. It conveys a message of resilience, unity, and a firm resolve to protect India’s borders at all costs.
