Sukh-Aashray: Building hope, security and brighter future for Himachal’s ‘Children of the State’
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· Safe environment and continuous support through ‘Mukhyamantri Sukh-Aashray Yojana’ are transforming lives of thousands of Children
There are times in life when a person needs more than financial assistance. A sense of belonging, security and compassionate guidance is equally important. While most children receive this support from their parents, those who lose parental care at an early age often face an uncertain future, with limited opportunities to pursue education and build a secure life.
Until recently, nearly 6,000 orphaned and vulnerable children in Himachal Pradesh were living under such circumstances. Deprived of parental support and adequate resources, many struggled to access quality education and opportunities for a dignified and self-reliant future.
Determined to change this reality, the state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, took a landmark decision to become a guardian for these children. Soon after assuming office on 11 December, 2022, Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the most vulnerable sections of society. His visit to the Balika Ashram at Tutikandi in Shimla, immediately after taking the oath of office, reflected this resolve and conveyed a strong message that the State would stand by orphaned children as a caring guardian.
This vision took shape with the launch of the Mukhyamantri Sukh-Aashray Yojana on 28 February, 2023. Under the scheme, nearly 6,000 orphaned and vulnerable children up to the age of 27 have been adopted as ‘Children of the State’, with the state government assuming responsibility for their education, care, skill development and overall well-being.
More than a welfare initiative, the Mukhyamantri Sukh-Aashray Yojana has become a symbol of hope, security and dignity. By providing sustained support and equal opportunities, the scheme is empowering thousands of children to pursue their aspirations with confidence and build a brighter, self-reliant future.
The Government bears the entire cost of education for every child adopted under the ‘Children of the State’ initiative. Reflecting the care and concern that parents extend to their children, the government also provides a monthly pocket allowance of Rs. 4,000 to support their personal needs and aspirations. Children up to the age of 14 residing in child care institutions receive Rs. 1,000 per month directly into their bank accounts, while those between 15 and 18 years of age receive Rs. 2,500 per month.
The scheme also places strong emphasis on helping beneficiaries become self-reliant as financial assistance of up to Rs. 2 lakh is provided for establishing a start-up. Students pursuing higher education, who are not provided hostel accommodation, receive a monthly house rent allowance of Rs. 3,000. To help them build secure futures, financial assistance of Rs. 3 lakh is available for setting up a home, and beneficiaries without land are provided land by the state government for house construction.
In addition, beneficiaries receive a festival allowance of Rs. 500, a clothing grant of Rs. 10,000, and a marriage grant of Rs. 2 lakh. To promote their holistic development, the government offers free career counselling and coaching for competitive examinations and vocational courses. Educational exposure visits to different parts of the country are also organized, enabling them to broaden their horizons and gain valuable experiences, with all expenses borne by the State government.
