Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Raksha Khadse, arrived in Leh on June 11 on an official visit to Ladakh in connection with the Viksit Vibrant Villages Programme (VVVP) being implemented by MY Bharat under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.

Upon her arrival at Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport, Leh, the Minister was accorded a warm traditional Ladakhi welcome. She was received by State Director, MY Bharat Ladakh, Tajamul Ara, along with officials of MY Bharat and other dignitaries. 

The visit is part of the ongoing Viksit Vibrant Villages Programme, which aims to strengthen youth participation in nation-building, promote cultural exchange, and foster sustainable development in India’s border villages. Under the programme, youth volunteers from different parts of the country are visiting vibrant villages across Ladakh to engage with local communities, experience their rich cultural heritage, and contribute to various community-oriented activities.

During her stay in Ladakh, Khadse will review the progress of programme activities and interact with participants of the Viksit Vibrant Villages Programme, members of MY Bharat Youth Clubs, and local youth. She is also scheduled to visit Hemya village on June 12, where she will interact with local residents, Panchayati Raj Institution representatives, women, and youth to understand their aspirations and discuss developmental initiatives being undertaken in the region.

As part of her visit, the Minister will also interact with personnel of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and acknowledge their invaluable contribution to safeguarding the nation’s borders and supporting local communities in remote areas.

The Viksit Vibrant Villages Programme is being implemented across several border villages of Ladakh, including Hemya, Chumathang, Hanle, Korzok, Chumur, Kuyul, and Nyoma. Activities under the programme include yoga sessions, cleanliness drives, community interactions, cultural exchanges, awareness campaigns, and youth engagement initiatives.

The Minister’s visit is expected to further strengthen youth participation in nation-building and reaffirm the Government of India’s commitment to the holistic development of border villages under the vision of a Viksit Bharat.