Himachal Pradesh Relaxes VKVNY

August 18, 2023

The Himachal Pradesh Government has announced the relaxation of the ‘Vidhayak Ksetra Vikas Nidhi Yojana’ (VKVNY) for the fiscal year 2023–24. The relaxation encompasses the addition of safeguarding initiatives such as retaining walls and channelization of Nullahs (small streams) under the scheme. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu stated that this decision follows the extensive damage inflicted by recent heavy rains on lives, public and private properties.

Under the revised scheme, legislators can now recommend the execution of projects aimed at disaster protection. Beneficiaries will be eligible upon providing evidence of damage caused by post-June 2023 rains, confirmed by revenue officers. Furthermore, Nullah channelization can be recommended if recent rains have jeopardized the landscape’s stability. This strategic move aims to expedite relief and rescue efforts in the state.

What changes have been made to the ‘Vidhayak Ksetra Vikas Nidhi Yojana’ (VKVNY) in Himachal Pradesh for the fiscal year 2023–24?

The Himachal Pradesh Government has expanded VKVNY to include projects related to disaster protection, specifically retaining walls and the channelization of Nullahs.

What prompted the government to include these disaster protection initiatives under VKVNY?

The decision was taken due to the significant losses in terms of lives, public and private properties caused by heavy rainfall in the state. The aim is to address the aftermath of such natural disasters.

What role do legislators play in the revised scheme, and how can they recommend projects?

Legislators are now empowered to propose and recommend the execution of disaster protection projects under VKVNY, contributing to the state’s efforts in mitigating the impact of natural calamities.

What are the criteria for beneficiaries to be eligible under the extended VKVNY?

To be eligible, beneficiaries need to provide a certificate/report indicating that retaining walls or breast walls have been damaged or washed away due to rains after June 2023, with confirmation from revenue officers.

Explain the significance of the inclusion of Nullah channelization in the revised VKVNY scheme.

Nullah channelization projects can now be recommended by MLAs if recent rains have destabilized the terrain, posing a threat to private property or community assets. This ensures comprehensive disaster protection.

How does the relaxation of VKVNY align with the government’s broader objectives?

The relaxation reflects the government’s commitment to swift relief and rescue operations post natural disasters. It also underscores the state’s dedication to safeguarding lives and properties.

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