The Union Cabinet is likely to approve key decisions on rail infrastructure and border village development, CNBC Awaaz reported. The decision is likely to be taken by the Cabinet and the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) soon, the report said.Approval for four new rail projects
The government plans to lay new rail lines in four regions, covering about 650 kilometers. These projects aim to improve connectivity, boost economic growth, and create jobs, the report said. The proposed rail lines are:
Kharsia-Naya Raipur
Gondia-Chanda Fort
Sambalpur-Jarapara
Jharsuguda-Sason
Cabinet and CCEA meetingThe meeting may approve the proposal to lay about 650 km of rail lines.The report added that the second phase of the Vibrant Village Programme (VVP) may also get approval. The government plans to invest ₹7,000 crore in this scheme over the next five years to develop border villages and create employment.
Vibrant Village Programme (VVP) – Phase 2The VVP focuses on improving infrastructure and employment in villages near India’s borders with China, Pakistan, and Myanmar, the report said. These villages, often called ‘last villages,’ lack basic facilities.Objectives of the scheme
Develop and secure border villages to prevent migration.
Provide essential facilities like roads, electricity, water, internet, healthcare, and education.
Create employment and self-employment opportunities.
Promote tourism while preserving cultural heritage.
Key developments under the scheme
Paved roads and better connectivity.
24×7 electricity and clean water supply.
Digital connectivity through Wi-Fi and mobile networks.
Establishment of primary health centers, schools, and Anganwadi centers.
Promotion of tourism through homestays and eco-tourism.
Skill development and training programs for local residents.
Villages coveredThe report said 663 villages in Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Ladakh were identified in the first phase. The second phase (VVP Phase 2) will extend the scheme further with a ₹7,000 crore budget.Importance of the scheme
Many border villages face migration due to the lack of development.
Empty villages weaken border security.
Neighboring countries like China are improving infrastructure, making it essential for India to strengthen its border regions.
