Hanoi, Jan 1 (NationPress) India’s transition to a village-first strategy fundamentally transforms the concept of security by acknowledging that empowered villagers—who are integrated into the economy, connected digitally, and included in mainstream development initiatives—are naturally more secure, as highlighted in a report released on Thursday.

“India is channeling resources into its border villages—empowering the locals, enhancing infrastructure, and fostering security through development and dignity. This progressive strategy aligns with a broader national vision aimed at ensuring that those residing at the borders not only survive but also prosper,” the report detailed in Vietnam Times.

The report underlined that India’s forward-thinking strategy is based on the principle that empowered, thriving villages contribute to building resilient regions.

“Instead of merely viewing border communities through a security perspective, policymakers have integrated development as a vital element of national strategy. This philosophy resonates through various programs aimed at enhancing villagers' quality of life while concurrently affirming India’s sovereign presence along its borders,” the report stated.

“This initiative draws from programs like the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP), under which the central government has allocated significant funds to transform remote communities into well-connected and economically viable entities. The scheme's objective is to reverse out-migration by making border villages appealing for residents to remain, invest, and establish their roots,” it further explained.

According to the report, India’s village-first approach prioritizes the development of all-weather road connectivity, electrification, access to mobile and internet services, healthcare facilities, and livelihood opportunities.

“These enhancements not only deliver essential services but also assist in bridging the urban-rural divide that has historically affected border regions. This initiative has significantly improved the quality of life by replacing reliance on firewood and kerosene with sustainable energy sources and cleaner cooking methods,” it emphasized.

The report highlighted that a unique aspect of India’s model is community ownership, with authorities engaging local gram panchayats, community leaders, and residents in the planning and execution of village action plans instead of imposing top-down solutions.

“This participatory approach has elevated morale and fostered a sense of ownership regarding development outcomes. Activities ranging from sustainable tourism initiatives to 'one village, one product' schemes promote local entrepreneurship and preserve cultural heritage. These efforts align with traditional lifestyles, enhancing livelihoods and building resilience in some of India’s most strategically sensitive areas,” it noted.

With investments pouring into infrastructure and employment opportunities, the report indicated that villages are witnessing stability in population. Improved access to mobile connectivity and digital services offers economic prospects that discourage relocation.