Shimla, 5^th January, 2025-The present Congress-led government in Himachal Pradesh, under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has become a pillar of support for orphaned children deprived of basic amenities, care and financial security. The State government driven by a sensitive and visionary approach ensured these children were not left behind by adopting them as “Children of the State.” This progressive initiative was launched soon after he assumed office which exemplifies the commitment of the government to inclusivity and welfare.

Immediately after assuming the office Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu demonstrated his dedication by visiting the Bal-Ashram at Tutikandi, Shimla, where he engaged with the children and pledged to uplift their lives. The result was the introduction of the Chief Minister Sukh-Aashray Yojana, a welfare initiative due to which 6,000 orphan children in the state were now getting improved access to education, healthcare and essential amenities. This initiative has positioned Himachal Pradesh as the first state in India to adopt a legislative framework for supporting orphans comprehensively.

A Mukhyamantri Sukh-Aashray Kosh of Rs. 101 crore has been created under this scheme, with an expanded scope to include abandoned children. In a remarkable gesture of equality, the state government arranged an enriching 13-day national tour for these children. The first group of 22 children, including 16 girls and six boys, were visiting prominent destinations such as Chandigarh, Delhi and Goa. Their travel arrangements including Shatabdi train ride and air travel ensure a comfortable journey. Additionally, they were accommodated in high-ranking government guesthouses and premier hotels, reflects the resolve of the present state government to treat these children as a part of its extended family.

The tour commenced in Chandigarh from 2 to 4 January, where the children stayed at Himachal Bhawan and explored the city. On 5 January, they travelled to Delhi by Shatabdi train, where they will spend three days visiting iconic historical sites. From Delhi, the group will fly to Goa on 9 January for a four-day stay in a three-star hotel and enjoy visits to popular tourist and cultural locations. On 14 January, the group is scheduled to return to Chandigarh. These efforts aim to provide the children with cherished memories and it will broaden their horizons besides enhance their knowledge through travel.

Under the Mukhyamantri Sukh-Aashray Yojana, Rs. 4,000 per month was being allocated to each child as pocket money. Additionally, Rs. 1,000 was deposited monthly into accounts for children up to the age of 14 in Bal-Balika institutions, while children aged 15 to 18 and single women receive Rs. 2,500 each month. The scheme also provides Rs. 2 lakh in start-up financial support for young adults, alongside 3 biswa land and Rs. 3 lakh for constructing a house. Moreover, Rs. 2 lakh marriage grant has been instituted for these children.

Apart from this beneficiaries also receive Rs. 10,000 annually to purchase clothing and footwear, while the age limit for remaining in orphanages has been extended from 26 to 27 years.

Furthering its commitment to education, the state government has secured admissions for 14 orphan children in reputed educational institutions, with their expenses fully covered under the scheme. To enhance care facilities, the foundation stone for the Mukhyamantri Adarsh Gram Sukh-Aashray Parisar Luthan, Kangra district has been laid. This modern residential facility, estimated to cost Rs. 93 crore will accommodate 400 dependents.

The Sukh-Aashray Yojana was a testament to a governance model rooted in human compassion, creating opportunities for the underprivileged and setting new standards for inclusive welfare programmes in the country. These orphan children have an equal right to the wealth of Himachal and with this initiative the government was now the mother and father of these children.