‘Beti Padhao’ not just a slogan, it’s my personal mission, says CM at Children’s Day event

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today said ‘Beti Padhao’ is not just a slogan but it’s my personal mission which will ensure women empowerment.

On the occasion of Children’s Day, the Chief Minister inaugurated the ‘Children of the State Sports and Cultural Meet-2025’ at the Ridge here today. The event was organised jointly by the Police and Social Justice and Empowerment Departments. Around 600 children from 29 Bal Balika Sukh Aashraya ashrams from across the state are participating in the meet.

Addressing the gathering, Sukhu said Himachal was the first state in the country to launch Mukhyamantri Sukhashraya Yojana which framed a law for the welfare of orphans, destitute children and women. “Acting as a guardian, ensuring complete safety, education and opportunities for every girl child, ‘Beti Padhao’ is not just a slogan, it is my personal mission,” he said.

Sukhu said the state has adopted 6,000 orphans and abandoned children as ‘Children of the State’ ensuring their complete care, education and support until the age of 27 years. He announced that to ensure better opportunities, these children will be admitted to leading schools in every district and the entire cost of their education will be borne by the state government.

He said that Children’s Day was dedicated to India’s first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. This sports and cultural festival reflects the state government’s resolve to carry forward Nehru’s vision of affection, equal opportunities and a brighter future for every child. On the occasion, the Chief Minister distributed laptops and school bags to the children.

Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Dhani Ram Shandil said the state government was making sustained efforts to build confidence and leadership among children living in institutional care through sports, art and cultural activities. He also shared details of various schemes being implemented by the department.A dog show, cultural performances, nukkad natak and tug-of-war competitions were among the major attractions of the event.

MLA Harish Janartha, Mayor Surender Chauhan, Deputy Mayor Uma Kaushal, Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary Shyam Bhagat Negi, senior officers, councillors and other dignitaries were present.