SHIMLA/CHITKUL) – Chitkul, Pooh, Nako, Leo and Chango villages in Himachal Pradesh today got new tag: These villages will be developed under the Vibrant Village program of the Modi Government.
The news was revealed by RK Singh, the Minister for state for New and Renewable Energy, during his visit to Chitkul village, which is located in Kinnaur district near the border with China.
But this announcement has come at the fag-end of the NDA-II regime of the Modi government which is now gearing up for the 2024 Lok Sabha Polls.
Accompanied by the Chief Minister, Mr. Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, and Horticulture and Kinnaur MLA Jagat Singh Negi, Singh said the Central Public Sector Undertaking( He did not name the CPSU) adopt Chitkul village to be developed under the Vibrant Village.
This partnership will aid the state government in effectively developing this vibrant village.
He said a one-megawatt power plant would be set up in Chitkul and would explore potential for micro hydel projects along the river's lap area.
It is, however, another thing that people of Kinnaur are not keen to develop hydropower projects in the region citing its fragile ecology as a reason.
During his visit, Singh also took the time to interact with the ITBP jawans, appreciating their dedication to protecting the Indian border in the region.
They listened to local grievances of Chitkul tribals who narrated their miseries they face in winter including lack of health facilities. Singh and Sukhu assured priority consideration for theur genuine demands.
Singh said Chitkul, Leo, Chango, Pooh and Nako villages in Kinnaur District will be developed under vibrant village. They will have a cultural and tourist center.
The Chief Minister promised a bus service from Chitkul to Mandi and sympathetic consideration for community hall, bus stand, parking and mini stadium demands.
They also interacted with ITBP officers at Nagasti post.
As part of their visit, Singh and Sukhu had the opportunity to explore an exhibition showcasing the exquisite Kinnauri handicrafts and products made by talented Kinnauri women.
This added touch highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the region and the significant contributions of its local artisans.
The visit served as an important step in assessing the impact of activities conducted under the vibrant village program.
The program aims to uplift rural areas and provide them with enhanced infrastructure and amenities.
Will these villages see transformation under Vibrant Village program the way the tribals long for? This question hover in the mountains to find answer as tribals have kept their fingers crossed so far.