Ray of hope: Orphaned youth find shelter in Himachal Govt’s embrace

The Himachal Pradesh Government’s welfare scheme, ‘Mukhyamantri Sukh-Aashray Yojana’, is emerging as a beacon of hope for orphaned and destitute youth in the Padhar subdivision of Mandi district.

Under the initiative, the state government has sanctioned a financial grant of Rs 51 lakh for the construction of homes for 17 beneficiaries — marking a significant step towards providing them with safety, stability and dignity.

Despite losing parental support, these children and young adults — referred to as the “Children of the State” — are now being offered not just shelter, but also financial and emotional support through the compassionate governance of the state. With the government acting as both guardian and caretaker, the scheme guarantees housing, monthly financial aid and emotional security for orphans up to the age of 27.

One such beneficiary, Anita Kumari from Surahan village in Padhar tehsil, expressed her gratitude. “We are three siblings and lost our parents several years ago. Today, the state government has given us the warmth and security of a family,” she said. Anita has been sanctioned Rs 3 lakh for the construction of her home, with Rs 1 lakh already deposited into her account. Each sibling also receives a monthly allowance of Rs 4,000 under the scheme.

Another resident of Surahan, Brahmanand, shared his appreciation through his wife, Riya Devi. The couple too has received Rs 3 lakh to build a permanent home.

Similarly, Surahan resident Somchand recalled the challenges of living in a kutcha house, often flooded during monsoons. “Now, with government support, we can build a solid home and live with dignity. We thank Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu for this support,” he said.

Vinod Kumar from Padhar echoed their sentiments. He has been sanctioned Rs 3 lakh, of which Rs 1 lakh has already been credited. “With this financial aid and the monthly Rs 4,000 allowance, life is not only safer but also more respectful now. We thank the government for standing with us,” he said.

Kundan Hajiri, Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) of Drang, confirmed the allocation of Rs 51 lakh for 17 beneficiaries in the Padhar subdivision. He emphasised the ‘Mukhyamantri Sukh-Aashray Yojana’ is proving to be a true lifeline for the state’s orphaned and vulnerable youth. Launched by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the initiative reflects the state government’s commitment to inclusive development and social justice — ensuring no child is left behind, especially those without families to rely on.

The ‘Sukh-Aashray Yojana’ continues to deliver more than just homes. It is providing dignity, emotional stability, and a pathway to a hopeful future for Himachal Pradesh’s most vulnerable youth.