Himachal CM flags off 'orphans tour' under Sukh Aashray Yojana

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, on Thursday, flagged off the 13-day educational and recreational tour for 22 orphan children adopted as ‘children of the state’ under the Sukh Aashray Yojana.

Sukhu flagged off the bus carrying the first group of 22 children, marking the start of the scheme. “The state government enacted a law for orphaned children and had adopted 6,000 children under the law. The government had launched the Sukh Aashray Yojana to ensure their welfare and provide for their educational needs,” he said.

Sukhu said, the scheme aims to empower these children and support them in becoming self-reliant. As part of the initiative, children were taken to places such as Chandigarh, Delhi and Goa for exposure and learning.

The children include 16 girls and 6 boys. Their plan includes visiting Chandigarh from Jan 2 to 4, a stay in Delhi, before flying to Goa on Jan 8. In Goa they will stay at a three-star hotel and visit key tourist and historic attractions. The group is scheduled to return to Chandigarh on Jan 14, 2025.

Agriculture Minister Chander Kumar, Deputy Chief Whip Kewal Singh Pathania, MLA Harish Janartha and Mayor MC Shimla Surinder Chauhan, were also present during the flag off.