New Delhi, Sept 11: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi commended the central government’s border area development vision while addressing the Border Area Development Conclave in the national capital on Wednesday.
General Dwivedi said that the vision for border area development is bold, ambitious and deeply rooted in the principles of inclusivity, sustainability and security. He described the border area development as a core component of national security.
“Indian Army’s efforts in the past have contributed immensely towards model villages in border areas, border tourism and developing infrastructure support, including medical support, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations. The border area development vision is bold, ambitious and deeply rooted in the principles of inclusivity, sustainability & security,” the Army Chief said
He added that there has been a ‘Whole of Nation Approach’ with renewed impetus.
The Chief of the Army Staff added that infrastructure development, smart borders comprising communication networks and power supply, economic development with employment generation; border area tourism and empowerment of the next generation by providing skill enhancement & education opportunities are key pillars of the vision of border area development.
He also spoke on other issues such as disaster management, green initiatives leading to sustainability, healthcare support and engagement with veterans residing in such areas
Whole of nation approach has led to renewed impetus but much more is to be achieved by a vast border because the borders are really remote at places. So, few imperatives if you have to look into, aren’t the civil administration, CIPF and the army doing enough? If they are doing enough, the convergence is needed from top, and the push has to be from top. And that’s why we’re all here today. Why should an area be deprived of economic development due to restrictions on the security grounds? These virgin areas need to be showcased to the world and besides that, their voice must reach the entire universe, not only India. Siachen, Bhoj, Suge Sarle, Manchukar and so on so forth,” he said.
General Dwivedi also highlighted the tourism potential in these areas and dubbed it a way to synergise and empower the inhabitants there…
J&K a tourist hotspot. When there is economic development in border areas, then we will see many positive outcomes, including reverse migration,” Singh added.
Arunchal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu also emphasised the importance of tourism in the rural economy.
“There are 11 border districts and 29 order blocks in Arunachal Pradesh. Today, the state’s main cities are connected by roads. We are seeing a lot of changes due to the ‘Vibrant Village’ program in the state. In Arunachal Pradesh, the state government, Indian Army & ITBP work together to plan projects. In the coming years, tourism will play an important role in the rural economy. This year Adventure Tourism Operators’ annual conference will be organised in the Tawang area of the state,” he said
