Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Khadse on Saturday concluded a three-day visit to strategically important border areas of Ladakh, highlighting the government’s focus on youth empowerment, community participation and development under the Vibrant Village Programme.
During the June 11-13 visit, Khadse interacted with local communities, youth volunteers, students and personnel of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), while reviewing initiatives aimed at strengthening development in frontier regions.
The minister began her visit with a stop at the Hall of Fame in Leh, where she paid tribute to soldiers who laid down their lives in service of the nation. She said the courage and sacrifice of the armed forces continue to inspire citizens and strengthen national resolve.
On June 12, Khadse visited Hemya village, where she attended programmes organised under the aegis of MY Bharat. Local artists and schoolchildren presented cultural performances, while young participants shared their experiences and aspirations regarding development in border villages.
She also interacted with MY Bharat volunteers and local residents on issues related to youth empowerment, skill development, sports participation and community-led growth.
The minister later visited an ITBP camp and met officers and personnel deployed in the region. She praised the force for its role in safeguarding the country’s borders and supporting development initiatives in remote areas.
Khadse said the contribution of the ITBP extends beyond security and includes strengthening connectivity and confidence among border communities.
On the final day of her visit, she visited Thiksey Monastery and interacted with members of the monastic community.
Speaking at the conclusion of the tour, Khadse said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, border villages are emerging as the country’s “first villages” and gateways of development. She said empowering youth in frontier regions through sports, skills and community participation remains a priority for the government.
“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,” she said.
The minister said initiatives such as MY Bharat and the Vibrant Village Programme are creating opportunities for young people in remote regions to contribute to nation-building and the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
The Vibrant Village Programme aims to improve infrastructure, connectivity, livelihoods and public services in villages located along India’s northern border while promoting inclusive development and strengthening local communities.
