Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a significant campaign to rehabilitate villages along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Uttarakhand that were abandoned during the India-China war of 1962.
During his visit to Harsil, Modi highlighted the evacuation of two villages in the Uttarkashi district during the conflict, emphasizing the government’s commitment to transforming these areas into prominent tourist destinations. “When China attacked India in 1962, these two villages were evacuated. While some may have forgotten, we must remember,” the Prime Minister stated.
He elaborated on the initiative, saying, “We have launched a campaign to rehabilitate these two villages and are working towards making them significant tourist spots.”
This initiative is part of the Indian government’s broader efforts to develop ‘vibrant villages’ along the China border. The Indian Army is actively participating in this endeavor under ‘Operation Sadbhavana,’ focused on enhancing border area development.
“Our goal is to ensure that the border areas of Uttarakhand benefit significantly from tourism. Previously referred to as the last villages, we now consider them our first villages. The ‘Vibrant Villages’ program aims to foster their growth, with ten villages from this region included in the initiative,” Modi added.
Nonetheless, the challenge of identifying rightful heirs to the vacant land persists, as over 60 years have passed since the evacuations, and many original landowners are no longer living. Additionally, revitalizing local commercial activities is crucial for the community’s sustainability. Enhancing tourism is seen as a pivotal strategy in this regard.
“A comprehensive approach to tourism is necessary,” Modi stated.
In conjunction with Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Modi inaugurated a trek and bike rally in Harsil following prayers at the winter residence of Maa Ganga in Mukhwa.
