New welfare schemes for orphans, vulnerable children soon: CM

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu visited the Tutikandi Bal Ashram here today and celebrated the festival of lights with the inmates of the ashram. The Chief Minister was welcomed by the children and staff of the ashram with the traditional lighting of earthen lamps and colourful cultural performances. The Chief Minister interacted with the children, distributed sweets and gifts and extended his Diwali greetings to them.

“The true spirit of Diwali lies in sharing joy, compassion and togetherness. These children are our future and it is our collective responsibility to ensure they grow up with love, dignity and opportunities,” said the Chief Minister.

Sukhu announced that the government would soon launch new welfare schemes aimed at orphans and vulnerable children to ensure their holistic development. Sukhu announced that sports day would be organised for the children of the Bal Ashram on November 14 every year, for which the state government would make adequate budgetary provision.

He said the state government had adopted the orphaned children as the children of the state and the government was not only bearing their educational expenses but was also providing them Rs 4,000 per month as pocket money. He further said the residential facilities would be upgraded in the Bal Ashrams of the state and facilities would be enhanced.

He further said that the students of the Bal Ashrams would be sent on educational tours out of the state to provide them exposure and learning experiences. He exhorted the children to focus on their studies and thereafter serve the nation in different capacities. Mayor Surinder Chauhan, Deputy Mayor Uma Kaundal, Director Women and Child Welfare Pankaj Lalit and Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap were also present on this occasion.