• Says border residents the “first line of defence” top priority for PM Modi
• “Officials should ensure no family is left out of welfare schemes
• Bridge the gap between promises, delivery on ground
• Pushes for youth entrepreneurship, women SHGs, improved infra
Jammu: Minister: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday stressed the need for accelerated and inclusive development of border villages during his visit to Makwal village in Jammu, stating that such areas represent India’s “first line of defence.”
Addressing a public gathering under Phase-II of the Vibrant Villages Programme, Sinha said residents of border areas are not only the “first face of India” for outsiders but also embody courage, sacrifice, and patience. “Border residents are not only first in courage and sacrifice, but they also stand first in the priorities of our Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor underscored that the service rendered by border residents must translate into tangible improvements in their quality of life. “Their service to the nation should not be honoured merely in words, but must reflect clearly in the living standards of every family,” he added.
Directing officials to adopt a people-centric approach, Sinha emphasized that no eligible beneficiary should be left out. “No family should be excluded and no genuine need should go unnoticed,” he said, adding that gaps in existing schemes must be addressed on priority.
He asserted that development of border villages is not just an administrative task but a “sentiment, resolve and responsibility,” and called for immediate solutions wherever schemes fall short. He further stressed that there must be no disconnect between government commitments and their actual delivery on the ground.
“Every family in Makwal and other border villages is not just living on the border, but standing guard for the nation,” Sinha said, reiterating that such villages should be viewed as the “first villages of India,” not the last.
Highlighting past neglect, the Lieutenant Governor said the situation has changed significantly over the past decade. “Earlier, border villages were routinely neglected. That time is over. Under the leadership of the Prime Minister, the distance from Delhi has effectively shrunk,” he said.
He noted that the Government of India is ensuring doorstep delivery of welfare schemes and has made sustained efforts over the past five to six years to make border villages more prosperous and vibrant.
Sinha directed officials to remove bottlenecks and ensure adequate resource allocation, asserting that border villages should receive development support comparable to or greater than urban areas. He also called for the appointment of dedicated nodal officers and submission of monthly progress reports under the Vibrant Villages Programme.
Emphasizing infrastructure and social development, he said the administration is committed to ensuring better road connectivity, quality education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities. “Every child in Makwal should receive the same standard of education as in major cities, and every farmer must have access to better inputs and markets,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor also highlighted the need to harness local talent by promoting youth entrepreneurship and strengthening women’s self-help groups. He said such initiatives would not only empower families but also drive regional economic growth.
“Our aim is to transform Makwal and other border villages into model villages where youth can see a future without migrating to cities,” he added, stressing the importance of training, financial assistance, and mentorship.
He further noted improvements in connectivity, electrification, and telecom services in border areas, alongside growth in agriculture, dairy, and tourism sectors since 2020, which have contributed to rising incomes and reduced migration.
Responding to public demands, Sinha assured timely action, including implementation of directions regarding land ownership rights of POJK displaced persons issued in 2024.
During the visit, the Lieutenant Governor also inaugurated and launched several development works, including a model Anganwadi centre, sports facilities, a community hall with a library and computer lab, a health sub-centre, and a veterinary dispensary. He also distributed appointment orders, sanction letters, and felicitated achievers from the village.
Senior officials, public representatives, and a large number of local residents were present on the occasion.Government of Jammu and Kashmir
