In a decision to rehabilitate border villages, the Government of Uttarakhand has unveiled a transformative initiative under the Vibrant Villages Programme. Jadung, lodged in the Uttarkashi district and uninhabited since 1962 due to the Indo-China dispute, has been selected as the pilot location for this unprecedented project.
The Cabinet-approved initiative is set to be a beacon for reverse migration, presenting an innovative approach by the Tourism Department. The project's first phase will witness the rejuvenation of six dilapidated homes in Jadung, which will be transformed into homestays. This project will be unique because the villagers will operate and run these homestays, promoting a sense of community and sustainability.
Spearheaded by Sh. Sachin Kurve, Secretary of Tourism, the initiative aims to create self-employment opportunities for the residents of Jadung while offering a unique tourism destination. The refurbished homes will be reconstructed using vernacular architecture and locally sourced materials, preserving the cultural and historical essence of the village.
An essential aspect of this initiative is the commitment from the villagers to manage the homestays for a minimum of 10 years. The District Administration of Uttarkashi will oversee the selection process for homestay operators, inviting applications from the original inhabitants through a dedicated committee. Finalised operational guidelines will ensure the seamless functioning of these homestays.
In addition to the physical transformation, the Tourism Department plans to provide comprehensive skill and soft skills training for the homestay operators. Periodic training sessions will be organised to enhance their hospitality skills, ensuring a high standard of service for the tourists. The department will also extend support for the marketing and promotion of these homestays, fostering their integration into the larger tourism landscape.
This visionary initiative aligns with the government's commitment to reverse migration, offering a template for sustainable development through tourism interventions. The Vibrant Villages Programme, with its unique focus on community involvement, aims to rejuvenate not just the physical structures but also the economic and social fabric of these villages.
The Cabinet's approval marks the green light for the Tourism Department to roll out this one-of-a-kind project. Anticipated as a milestone in reversing migration trends, the scheme promises to create new tourism opportunities and serve as a model for similar interventions across the country.
Jadung, a remote border village in Uttarakhand, situated at an elevation of 3,800 meters, is set to become a sustainable tourist destination. Located on the Indo-Tibet border, the village was nearly deserted during the 1962 Indo-China war. The village's appeal lies in its untouched natural beauty, encompassing snow-clad mountains and serene brooks.
Also known as a "village frozen in time," Jadung promises a range of tourist activities such as astro-tourism, hiking, trekking, camping, and bird watching. Nelong Valley, known as the Ladakh of Uttarakhand, is nearby, adding to the adventure possibilities.