Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Khadse concluded a three-day visit to strategically significant border areas of Ladakh from June 11 to 13, 2026 under the Government of India's Vibrant Village Programme. The visit focused on strengthening border villages through youth participation, community engagement, and last-mile development while reinforcing coordination with security forces deployed in frontier regions.
The visit commenced on June 11 with a tribute to India's armed forces at the Hall of Fame in Leh, where the Minister paid homage to soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in defense of the nation. On June 12, Khadse visited the border village of Hemya, where she received a traditional welcome under the aegis of MY Bharat and witnessed cultural performances by local artists and school children. Young participants shared their experiences and ideas for strengthening development opportunities in border villages, and the Minister felicitated DIG ITBP Tashi Namgyal, Deputy Commandant Priyanjan, the village Sarpanch, and local artists for their contributions to community development and national integration.
Following the village programme, Khadse visited the ITBP camp and interacted with officers and personnel deployed in the region, commending the force for its exceptional dedication and resilience in demanding operational environments. She noted that ITBP's contribution extends beyond border security to supporting development initiatives, facilitating connectivity, and strengthening confidence among border communities. On June 13, the Minister visited Thiksey Monastery and participated in morning prayers, interacting with members of the monastic community and offering prayers for the nation's peace and prosperity.
Khadse emphasized that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, India's border villages are emerging as the nation's first villages and gateways of development. She stated that empowering youth in frontier regions through sports, skill development, community participation, and nation-building initiatives remains a key government priority, with youth energy and security forces' dedication playing vital roles in realizing the Viksit Bharat @2047 vision. The Vibrant Village Programme is a flagship initiative aimed at improving quality of life in northern border villages through enhanced infrastructure, livelihood opportunities, connectivity, public services, and community participation, ensuring inclusive development while strengthening the social and economic fabric of frontier regions.