Shimla, June 12
The Mukhyamantri Sukh Ashrya Scheme is transforming the lives of orphaned children in Himachal Pradesh by providing them with world-class education. Under this initiative, the State Government, led by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, is enrolling orphaned children in prestigious educational institutions, ensuring their access to high-quality education.
Three orphaned girls from Shishu Sudhar Grih have been admitted to Convent Tara Hall School in Shimla, and transport facilities will be provided soon. Additionally, five children from Shishu Sudhar Grih have been enrolled in Dayanand Public School, Shimla, four in Pinegrove School, Solan, and two in DAV School Sundernagar, Mandi. The State Government is covering all educational expenses.
In the 2023-24 financial year, 1,084 children in Child Care Institutions (CCI) received Rs. 1.02 crore in financial assistance. Additionally, 2,719 beneficiaries received Rs. 4,000 per month as pocket money, totaling Rs. 4.34 crore. Festival allowances, clothing allowances, and nutritional diet money were also disbursed.
For the 2024-25 financial year, 1,061 orphans will receive Rs. 1.99 crore in social security, 3,121 beneficiaries will get Rs. 4,000 per month as pocket money totaling Rs. 16.89 crore, and Rs. 65.76 lakh will be disbursed as festival allowance.
The scheme also supports higher education, vocational training, skill development, and startup projects, with significant financial assistance provided in these areas. Himachal Pradesh is the first state in India to enact a law specifically for orphan care, ensuring their education and dignified life.
Chief Minister Sukhu emphasized the State Government’s commitment to uplifting the underprivileged and providing them a voice.
