Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday visited Nangali 'Vibrant Village' in Poonch, where he interacted with residents and government officials, reviewed development works, and addressed a public gathering. The Vibrant Villages Programme, a flagship initiative by the Centre, focuses on the comprehensive development of select underdeveloped villages along India's international borders.
Border Villages as Gateways
In his address, the Lieutenant Governor observed that border villages provide outsiders with the first glimpse of India. He stated that India's true identity does not reside solely in big cities but thrives on its borders, serving as proud gateways to the nation. Sinha expressed an unwavering resolve to ensure that border villages receive the same development and prosperity as the largest towns and cities. He vowed not to rest until every family on the border enjoys progress and opportunities equal to those in urban Jammu and Kashmir.
Development Achievements in Poonch
Sinha highlighted significant strides made in Poonch's border villages over the past six years. He noted that 20 per cent of families have risen above the poverty line. Infrastructure has been strengthened with 94 per cent road connectivity, 98 per cent telecom coverage, and 100 per cent healthcare coverage. Family incomes have increased by 25 per cent, and outmigration has decreased by 6 per cent. The Lieutenant Governor emphasized a mission of absolute saturation of every welfare scheme, ensuring no household is left behind.
Vision for Youth
Sinha declared that he will not rest until the youth in border villages know their futures are bright and full of opportunity. He urged that the world should see India's border villages not as the last hamlets but as the beginning of a great dream. He described this as his mission and promise.
Reiterating that border villages reflect the richness, dignity, and appeal of India's spirit, Sinha said every family in Poonch's 133 border villages must feel the same pride, prosperity, and hope as families in larger cities. He called for renewed commitment to work tirelessly to make these villages symbols of development and prosperity.
