STAFF REPORTER
GUWAHATI, Feb 20: Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday said the launch of the nationwide Vibrant Village Programme-II (VVP-II) from Cachar district by Union Home Minister Amit Shah reflects the increasing importance of the Barak Valley in Assam’s development roadmap and India’s Act East vision.
In a post on social media, Sarma said the region, once considered neglected, has now emerged as a key focus area for both the State and the Centre.
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He noted that the decision to roll out the programme from Cachar underscores its strategic and developmental significance in the national landscape.
The chief minister said his government has placed strong emphasis on accelerating growth in the Barak Valley through major infrastructure and connectivity initiatives.
Among the key projects, he highlighted plans for an upcoming expressway aimed at reducing travel time between Guwahati and Silchar to around five hours, which he said would boost trade, tourism and economic activity.
Sarma also shared updates on the proposed Barak Valley Secretariat, stating that the project would strengthen governance by bringing administrative services closer to the people and ensuring faster delivery of public services.
He reiterated the commitment of the “double engine government” to balanced and equitable development of both the Barak and Brahmaputra valleys, adding that multiple initiatives are being implemented to improve infrastructure, healthcare, education and employment opportunities in the region.
The Barak Valley comprises the districts of Cachar, Hailakandi and Sribhumi.
The Vibrant Village Programme is a flagship central initiative aimed at developing border villages through improved infrastructure, livelihoods and essential services while enhancing national security and preventing migration from border areas.
