The northern province of Hoa Binh has undergone a remarkable transformation thanks to the successful implementation of the national target programme on building new-style rural areas. In recent years, localities across the province have adopted comprehensive strategies, with a particular focus on infrastructure investment, to drive rural development forward.
Thanks to the new-style rural development programme, more investment has been poured in transport infrastructure in rural areas.
Once a disadvantaged commune in Tan Lac district, Gia Mo embarked on its rural development journey from a low starting point. However, with strong support from the Party and State, along with the dedication of local authorities and residents, it has made significant strides. In 2021, Gia Mo was officially recognised as meeting new-style rural area standards, and improvements have continued since then.
Last year, Dung hamlet received funding to pave its internal roads, significantly enhancing its transportation network. Bui Van Trung, head of the hamlet, highlighted the programme’s impact, stating that roads have been gradually upgraded, making travel easier for residents. Notably, villagers voluntarily donated over 7,600 square meters of land and hundreds of trees to support the initiative.
Beyond transportation, community infrastructure has also seen significant upgrades. For example, in Gia Phu hamlet—formed from the merger of Bo and Quan hamlets—the once-deteriorating stilt house that served as a cultural center has been replaced with a modern facility.
"The new cultural house features a spacious courtyard with two volleyball courts, allowing residents to engage in sports and cultural activities with neighboring hamlets," said Bui Van Duong, a resident of Gia Phu.
According to the Tan Lac district People’s Committee, over 7.6 billion VND (approximately 297,660 USD) was mobilised for new rural development last year. By the end of 2024, 10 communes had fulfilled all the 19 criteria for new-style rural areas, while five others met between 10 and 14 criteria. This year, the district aims to add one more commune to the list of new-style rural areas and upgrade three others to advanced new-style rural status.
Across Hoa Binh province, efforts have been even more extensive. Last year, localities mobilised over 8.8 trillion VND for rural development, prioritising infrastructure improvements such as roads, irrigation systems, electricity, schools, healthcare centres, and cultural facilities. As a result, 96 out of 129 communes now meet transportation criteria and all communes have access to stable electricity for both production and daily life.
As many as 121 out of 129 communes meet irrigation and disaster prevention standards. Significant advancements have been made in education and healthcare infrastructure. By the end of 2024, Hoa Binh saw three new communes recognised as meeting new-style rural standards, four achieving advanced new-style rural status and two designated as model new-style rural areas, bringing the numbers of such communes to 83, 32 and three, respectively.
Looking ahead, Hoa Binh aims to certify nine more communes as new-style rural standards, upgrade three to model status, and have two districts recognised as new-style rural areas.
To achieve these ambitious goals, the province will continue prioritising investment in essential infrastructure, particularly in transportation, irrigation, electricity, and clean water. These efforts will ensure sustainable growth and improve the quality of life for local rural residents.
Recognising digital transformation as an inevitable trend, authorities and agencies in Hoa Binh have made great efforts in the work by focusing on three core pillars - digital government, digital society, and digital economy, resulting in enhanced competitiveness, improved investment climate, and ensured economic and social welfare.
In recent years, Da Bac district has improved administrative reform with a one-stop shop mechanism, streamlined inter-agency procedures, and a shift to digital platforms. These efforts have enhanced public service efficiency and contributed to local socio-economic development.
The Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union (HCYU) Committee and the Vietnam Youth Federation (VYF) chapter in Hoa Binh province launched the Youth Month 2025 at a ceremony held in Phu Thanh commune, Lac Thuy district, on March 2.
Hoa Binh City is mobilising resources to invest in transport infrastructure, enhance urban landscapes, and develop green spaces and environmental planning, aiming to build a modern, civilised city with a distinct identity. Efforts are being made to improve urban planning and management.
Hoa Binh province is pursuing a modern urban area model that can still preserve the local cultural identity, said Director of the provincial Construction Department Nguyen Tuan Anh.
The Standing Board of the Hoa Binh Women's Union issued Document No. 1990 on February 6, 2025, outlining activities for "Ao Dai Week" 2025, an annual initiative launched by the Presidium of the Vietnam Women's Union.
