Government Secures ₹21 Lakh Fixed Deposit for Orphaned Flood Survivor Nikita

Financial Support for a Young Survivor

In accordance with Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu's previous commitment, a fixed deposit of ₹21 lakh has been established for Nikita, a young girl who tragically lost her family during the catastrophic flash floods in the Seraj area of Mandi district last year.

On Thursday, Deputy Commissioner of Mandi, Apurv Devgan, visited Shikawari village in Thunag tehsil to officially present the fixed deposit certificate to Kiran Devi, Nikita's aunt and legal guardian.

At just 11 months old during the disaster, Nikita was among the youngest survivors of the devastating cloudburst and floods that hit the Seraj region on June 30. The floodwaters claimed the lives of her parents and grandmother, leaving her orphaned. Villagers found her alone in her damaged home after the waters receded, her cries prompting a swift rescue.

The incident garnered significant sympathy throughout Himachal Pradesh. During a public event in Mandi, CM Sukhu had promised financial support of ₹21 lakh to ensure Nikita's education and future. This fixed deposit now provides her with long-term financial stability.

Moreover, the Himachal Pradesh government is offering monthly assistance of ₹4,000 through the Sukh Ashray Scheme to aid in Nikita's upbringing, education, and healthcare.

Deputy Commissioner Devgan highlighted the government's dedication to ensuring that Nikita is raised in a secure and dignified environment. He stated, 'This support is not merely financial aid; it is a commitment the government has made to a child who has lost everything due to the disaster.'

Also present at the event were SDM Thunag Ramesh Kumar, Nikita's aunt Kiran Kumari, Tara Devi, and Anmantran Singh.