Context:

• Himachal Pradesh Cabinet has decided to extend the benefits of the Mukhyamantri Sukh-ashray Yojana to abandoned and surrendered children up to the age of 27 years.

Key Points:

• The Mukhyamantri Sukh-Ashray Yojana (Chief Minister's Shelter Scheme) was launched by the Himachal Pradesh government to provide comprehensive support to vulnerable groups, particularly orphans, abandoned children, single women, and senior citizens.
• Now the scheme has been expanded to include abandoned and surrendered children up to the age of 27 years, reflecting the government's commitment to ensuring the welfare of these marginalized groups.

Key features of the Scheme

Financial assistance

Under the Mukhyamantri Sukh-Ashray Yojana, various financial aids are provided based on age categories:

• Children up to 14 years: Monthly assistance of ?1,000.
• Children aged 14 to 18 years: Monthly assistance of ?2,500.
• Children aged 18 to 27 years: Monthly pocket money of ?4,000.

Additionally, the government will cover the full costs of higher education for eligible children until they reach 27 years old. For those pursuing postgraduate studies without hostel accommodation, an additional ?3,000 per month will be provided for living expenses.

Support for livelihood and housing

To foster self-sufficiency among these children, the scheme includes:

• Start-up Assistance: A grant of ?2 lakh to help establish small businesses.
• Housing support: Financial assistance of ?3 lakh for building homes and land allocation for housing.
• Marriage assistance: A sum of ?2 lakh is allocated for marriage expenses when applicable.

Holistic Development 

In addition to financial support, the scheme emphasizes holistic development through:

• Annual Travel Experience: An annual air travel experience with accommodation in a three-star hotel aimed at broadening their horizons and building confidence.
• Educational Tours: Regular educational tours to enhance learning opportunities and exposure.
• Nurturing care: The provision of caregivers and matrons to ensure proper care and nurturing for children in need.
   

Notably, Himachal Pradesh has become the first state in India to enact legislation specifically aimed at providing comprehensive care and support for orphaned and abandoned children.

This legal framework underscores the state's responsibility towards these vulnerable groups, ensuring that their rights are protected and that they receive adequate resources for a dignified life.

A Model to emulate

• The Mukhyamantri Sukh-Ashray Yojana currently benefits approximately 6,000 orphaned children, with the recent expansion expected to include many more abandoned and surrendered children.
• The initiative not only addresses immediate financial needs but also aims at long-term empowerment through education and self-sufficiency.  
• As this scheme continues to evolve, it reflects a significant step towards safeguarding the rights and well-being of some of society's most vulnerable members. The government's commitment to providing comprehensive support is expected to pave the way for improved living conditions and opportunities for these children in Himachal Pradesh.
• At ground level, the Mukhyamantri Sukh-Ashray Yojana stands as a model for other states in India aiming to enhance support systems for orphaned and abandoned children. Its holistic approach not only addresses financial needs but also focuses on personal development and empowerment, creating novel paradigms of Good Governance and Welfare State.