Shimla: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated the Mukhyamantri Sukh Ashraya Yojana" today, making Himachal the first state in India to enact a law aimed at supporting orphan children and other vulnerable sections of society.
The scheme, launched from the Ridge in Shimla, seeks to provide comprehensive assistance to orphans, specially-abled children, destitute women, and the elderly. Chief Minister Sukhu expressed his commitment to serving these vulnerable groups, emphasizing that the government would provide parental care and support to those in need.
Key highlights of the program include:
- Financial benefits of Rs 4.68 crore distributed to eligible children, covering fees, hostel expenses, and monthly allowances.
- 30 meritorious 12th-grade students awarded laptops, with 268 more to receive them in the second phase.
- Monthly financial assistance of Rs 4,000 for approximately 2,700 newly identified orphans living with relatives.
- Annual 15-day educational tours for orphaned children, including stays in three-star hotels, fully funded by the government.
- Provision of apparel allowances, festival grants, and marriage grants.
- Support for higher education and self-employment opportunities.
The Chief Minister stressed that these rights granted to orphan children were now enshrined in law to protect their interests. He encouraged the beneficiaries to work diligently, emphasizing the importance of sincerity, determination, and hard work for success.
Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Dr. (Col) Dhani Ram Shandil praised the government's commitment to uplift underprivileged sections of society and highlighted various decisions taken for social welfare.
The scheme, with a budget allocation of Rs 995 crore for the current fiscal year, aims to provide a safety net for vulnerable groups, including widows and people with disabilities.
Agriculture Minister Prof. Chander Kumar and Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh, were present at the launch event.
This initiative is expected to bring significant relief and support to those in need across Himachal Pradesh, setting a precedent in the country for the care and upliftment of orphaned and vulnerable individuals.
