Jammu, April 1,2026- Manoj Sinha on Wednesday visited the vibrant border village of Makwal under the Phase-II of the Vibrant Villages Programme, reaffirming the government’s commitment to the holistic development of border areas.
Addressing a public gathering, the Lieutenant Governor described border villages as “India’s first line of defence” and their residents as the “first face of the nation.” He said the people living in these areas embody courage, sacrifice, and resilience, and remain a top priority under the leadership of Narendra Modi.
“Residents of border villages are serving the nation every single day. That service must not be honoured only in words, but reflected in the quality of life of every family,” he said.
Emphasising inclusive development, the Lieutenant Governor directed officials to ensure that no family is left behind and no genuine need goes unnoticed. “Where existing schemes fall short, solutions must be created on priority. Development of border villages is not just a policy, but a responsibility and resolve,” he added.
He stressed that there must be no gap between government promises and delivery on the ground. “Every family in Makwal and other border villages is not merely living on the border but standing guard for India,” he said, adding that border villages should be seen as the “first villages of India,” not the last.
Highlighting progress in recent years, Sinha noted that significant strides have been made in improving infrastructure and livelihoods across border areas. He said enhanced road connectivity, near-universal electrification, and expanded telecom access have transformed the living conditions of residents.
“Earlier, border villages were neglected. Today, under the guidance of the Prime Minister, the distance from Delhi has shrunk in a real sense. Government schemes are reaching the doorstep of every family,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor also underscored the need to promote youth entrepreneurship and strengthen women’s self-help groups to drive economic growth. “There is no shortage of talent in Makwal. What is needed is the right direction. Our youth and women must become drivers of social and economic progress,” he said.
He reiterated the administration’s vision to transform border villages into model villages with quality education, better healthcare, improved agricultural support, and ample employment opportunities to curb migration.
During the visit, the Lieutenant Governor also initiated several development works under Own Sources of Revenue (OSR), including a Model Anganwadi Centre, synthetic sports courts, a community hall with library and computer lab, a health sub-centre, and a veterinary dispensary.
He also distributed appointment orders, sanction letters under Mission Yuva, and assistive support to beneficiaries, while felicitating achievers including TB warriors and progressive farmers.
Senior officials from the civil administration, police, and other departments were present on the occasion.
