Cabinet approves Rs 4,406-crore for roads in border areas of Rajasthan, Punjab

This initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to develop vibrant villages

The union cabinet on October 9 approved the construction of 2,280 km of roads in Rajasthan and Punjab at an investment of Rs 4,406 crore in a big push to improve infrastructure in border areas.

The initiative is aimed at enhancing connectivity and livelihood in rural and remote areas near the borders. Rajasthan and Punjab share their borders with Pakistan.

"The government has emphasised the development of infrastructure in border areas," information and broadcasting minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said, briefing media on decisions taken by the cabinet. "This includes roads, telecom connectivity, water supply, health, and education. We have moved away from the mind-set that these are the last villages — they are, in fact, the first villages of our country."

The project aims to ensure better connectivity with the national highway network making travel easier in these regions.

"Rural livelihood will be enhanced; travel will become easier, and connectivity with the rest of the highway network will be ensured," Vaishnaw said.

The initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to develop vibrant villages and bolster infrastructure in key border areas, reflecting a change in policy to view these areas as essential to national integration and development, the minister said.