New Delhi [India]: During Republic Day celebrations, Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized the transformative goals of the ‘Vibrant Village’ initiative, aimed not only at improving physical infrastructure like roads, railways, and air connectivity but also at bridging emotional and cultural gaps between Delhi and rural villages.
Speaking to Sarpanchs, Deputy Sarpanchs, women entrepreneurs, and students, Shah described the initiative as a catalyst for rethinking rural development. “The Vibrant Village program represents a shift in mindset. While roads, railways, and air connectivity reduce physical distances, this program is primarily about reducing ‘Dil ki doori’ (emotional distance) and ‘Mann ki doori’ (mental distance) between Delhi and the villages,” Shah said.
He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for spearheading inclusive development since 2014. “The vision of inclusive, all-encompassing development came into existence after 2014, touching every citizen and region of the country. This transformation began under PM Modi’s leadership,” Shah added.
Highlighting the progress in regions like Ladakh, Shah mentioned how freezing diesel once posed challenges for vehicles. “Under PM Modi’s guidance, R&D funds were allocated to oil companies to resolve this issue, ensuring smooth operations in the region,” he said.
Shah also discussed the comprehensive approach of the Vibrant Village program, noting that over 22 central ministers visited 8 districts and 26 villages to identify challenges and launch 626 development projects. These include infrastructure enhancements, eco-tourism initiatives, solar street lights, school improvements, and community halls.
“The government launched 626 projects covering sectors like eco-tourism, community halls, solar street lights, track routes, and school infrastructure to empower villages and promote their connectivity, paving the way for overall growth and prosperity,” he said.
Separately, BJP President JP Nadda highlighted the program’s focus on empowering rural areas through initiatives targeting women, youth, and economic growth. He stressed the need to promote India’s villages as tourist destinations to showcase their untapped potential.
“The Vibrant Village Program focuses on creating livelihood opportunities by promoting tourism, cultural heritage, skill development, and entrepreneurship. This initiative, launched on April 10, 2023, under Amit Shah’s leadership, is now actively driving progress,” Nadda told media.
The program aims to empower rural communities through economic development, cultural preservation, and infrastructure upgrades, fostering a self-sustaining ecosystem in villages across India.