Tawang villagers calls Arunachal 'integral' part of India, slams China for map provocation

The residents of border villages in Arunachal Pradesh's Tawang have voiced their strong condemnation of China's recent claims over the Northeastern state. They firmly assert that Arunachal Pradesh is and will forever remain an integral part of India. These villagers also showered praise on the Central and State Governments for their development initiatives and expressed gratitude for the presence of the Indian Army, which they say has brought peace and security to their lives.

China's assertion of sovereignty over India's Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin in August this year by releasing a 'standard map' has sparked a wave of anger among the villagers residing in the Tawang sector, specifically in Sengnup, Kharseneng, and Grengkhar villages.

'Happy with the works done by both Central and State Governments'

Sange Dorjee, a villager from the Kharseneng area, expressed his satisfaction with the Government's developmental work. He stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Government at the Centre and the Pema Khandu-led Arunachal Pradesh Government have done lots of developmental work in the bordering villages.

"Earlier, the road condition in our area was so bad, but the current Government has made a concrete road in our village for which the villagers are getting suitable road connectivity. Most of the people in our village are farmers and the Government has extended help to the farmers also. We are happy with the works done by both Central and State Governments," Dorjee told ANI.

Karchung, a resident of Grengkhar village, proudly said, " We are with the Indian Army and the Government. China is claiming Arunachal Pradesh as their part, but Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India. We will not bow down to China. If needed we will go with the Indian Army to fight against China."

Vibrant Villages Programme: Development of border villages

The Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP), approved on February 15, 2023, has been instrumental in fostering development in these border villages. The Central Government has allocated Rs 4,800 crore for the program from the financial year 2022-23 to 2025-26, with Rs 2,500 crore specifically designated for road connectivity. The VVP aims to comprehensively enhance the quality of life in villages in border areas and facilitate infrastructural development.

The Government's approval of the VVP as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme is a testament to its commitment to the comprehensive development of select villages in 46 blocks across 19 districts bordering the northern frontier in the States of Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, and the Union Territory of Ladakh. The programme aims to improve the lives of people residing in these strategically significant areas.

(With inputs from ANI)