DC Baramulla Minga Sherpa chairs workshop on implementation of Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP-II) at Uri

To streamline the implementation of the Vibrant Villages Programme Phase-II (VVP-II) in the border areas of Baramulla district, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, chaired a day-long workshop today at the Meeting Hall in Uri.

Vibrant Villages programme is an initiative of the Government of India, aimed to ensure sustainable and inclusive development in remote and border villages through focused interventions in infrastructure, connectivity, livelihood opportunities, and essential public services.

At the outset, Joint Director Planning Baramulla provided a detailed powerpoint presentation outlining the status and strategic components of VVP-II. Speaking during the meeting, DC underscored the importance of interdepartmental convergence and urged all departments to execute the programme in mission mode to ensure timely and impactful results.

Sherpa highlighted that the four core focus areas viz. road connectivity, telecom connectivity, television connectivity and electrification must be pursued with utmost priority to enhance the quality of life in the identified villages.

DC further instructed the designated nodal officers for all 18 identified villages to formulate a Village Action Plans under VVP-II, with clearly defined timelines and community-focused interventions, and a firm deadline of 9th June for the finalization of these plans.

DC also laid emphasis on livelihood generation, financial inclusion, and the promotion of solar-based energy solutions. He directed the concerned departments to initiate skill development initiatives under schemes like PM Vishwakarma Yojana and to actively explore tourism potential in the region.

Meanwhile, DC announced that a mega festival will be organized at Shahdara, Uri, as part of the outreach and cultural engagement component of the programme which will serve as a vibrant platform to showcase local culture, talent, and government welfare schemes aimed at empowering border communities.

The workshop was attended by Joint Director Planning, Sub Divisional Magistrate Uri, Assistant Commissioner Development and nodal officers besides other officers and officials.