Kashmir Impulse Desk

New Delhi, June 13

Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Raksha Khadse, on Saturday said that border villages were emerging as gateways of development.

An official spokesman in a statement issued by Press Information Bureau here said that speaking at the conclusion of her three-day visit to strategically significant border areas of Ladakh from June 11 to 13 under the Vibrant Village programme, Union MoS Sports Khadse said, “Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India’s border villages are emerging as the nation’s first villages and gateways of development. Empowering youth in these frontier regions through sports, skill development, community participation and nation-building initiatives remains a key priority of the government. The energy of our youth and the dedication of our security forces will play a vital role in realising the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.”

She said: “The youth of our border villages are not merely beneficiaries of development; they are active partners in building a strong, self-reliant and developed India. Through initiatives such as MY Bharat and the Vibrant Village Programme, we are creating opportunities that enable them to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s progress.”

Khadse said that her visit underscored the Government of India’s commitment to strengthening border villages through youth participation, community engagement, and last-mile development, while reinforcing coordination with security forces deployed in frontier regions.

She said that the visit also highlighted the growing role of MY Bharat in mobilising youth participation, nurturing leadership and creating opportunities for young citizens in remote border areas to contribute actively to nation-building.

During the visit, the minister was accompanied by Tazmul Ara, State Director, MY Bharat; Nitish Rajora, Deputy Commissioner, Changthang; Tashi Namgyal, DIG, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP); Priyanjan, Deputy Commandant, ITBP; and other senior officials and dignitaries.

Her visit commenced on June 11 with a visit to the iconic Hall of Fame in Leh.

Khadse paid homage to the soldiers who were killed in the line of duty.

She said that the courage, discipline, and patriotism displayed by India’s armed forces continue to inspire every citizen and strengthen the nation’s resolve.

The minister also viewed exhibits depicting the valour, sacrifices, and operational achievements of the armed forces in safeguarding India’s borders under challenging conditions.

On June 12, Raksha Khadse visited the border village of Hemya, where she received a traditional welcome under the aegis of MY Bharat.

The programme featured vibrant cultural performances by local artists and school children, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Ladakh.

Young participants associated with the Vibrant Village initiative shared their experiences, aspirations and ideas for strengthening development opportunities in border villages.

The interaction provided an important platform for understanding local perspectives and encouraging greater youth participation in community development and nation-building efforts.

On the occasion, Khadse felicitated DIG ITBP Tashi Namgyal, Deputy Commandant Priyanjan, the village Sarpanch, and local artists for their valuable contributions towards community development, youth engagement and national integration.

The minister also interacted informally with MY Bharat volunteers, youth participants and members of the local community at the residence of the village Sarpanch, where discussions centred on opportunities for youth empowerment, skill development, sports participation and community-led development.

Following the village programme, Khadse visited the ITBP camp and interacted with officers and personnel deployed in the region.

Addressing them, she commended the force for its dedication, resilience, and service in some of the country’s most demanding operational environments.

The Union MoS Sports said that the contribution of the ITBP extends beyond border security and plays a vital role in supporting development initiatives, facilitating connectivity and strengthening confidence among border communities.

She also appreciated the force’s active support in the successful implementation of the Vibrant Village Programme and other developmental efforts in remote frontier areas.

On the final day of the visit on Saturday, the minister visited the revered Thiksey Monastery and participated in the morning prayers.

Khadse interacted with members of the monastic community and offered prayers for the peace, prosperity and continued progress of the nation.

The Vibrant Village Programme is a flagship initiative of the Government of India aimed at improving the quality of life in villages along the northern border through enhanced infrastructure, livelihood opportunities, connectivity, public services and community participation.

The programme seeks to ensure inclusive development while strengthening the social and economic fabric of frontier regions.

An official spokesman in a statement issued by the Press Information Bureau said that the three-day visit demonstrated the government’s integrated approach towards border area development by bringing together local communities, youth organisations, civil administration and security forces.

The statement said that it also reinforced the role of MY Bharat as a powerful platform for connecting young citizens from remote regions with the national development agenda and the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.