This Central Sector Scheme, fully funded by the Centre, is set to operate from the financial years 2024-25 to 2028-29.
The scheme will cater to villages located in the blocks abutting international land borders other than the Northern border, which were previously covered under the first phase of the programme.
The focus will be on select strategic villages across 15 States and Union Territories, including Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Gujarat, Jammu and Kashmir, Manipur, and West Bengal.
As per the government, the programme’s primary objectives include creating better living conditions and adequate livelihood opportunities for residents, ensuring secure and prosperous borders, and curbing trans-border crime.
Key components of VVP-II include infrastructure development, value chain enhancement through cooperatives and self-help groups, and the establishment of education facilities such as SMART classrooms. Additionally, the programme will support the development of tourism circuits and diverse livelihood opportunities that are sustainable and tailored to the unique needs of border communities.