Himachal Pradesh Government Steps In to Support Abandoned Children
Immediate Assistance for Abandoned Siblings
Declared ‘Children of the State’, will be provided free education, financial aid
Subhash Mahajan
CHAMBA:
In response to a distressing report about four abandoned children in Chamba, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu reached out to them through a video call on Saturday (December 20, 2025), offering urgent assistance. This action followed widespread concern after visuals showed the children suffering in a makeshift hut during the cold weather.
The siblings, residing in Bhatwad village under the Bhajotra panchayat in the Salooni sub-division, became orphaned after their father's passing in 2021 and their mother's subsequent abandonment. For years, they have faced severe hardships, struggling to survive without proper food, shelter, or support, relying on each other in harsh winter conditions.
Encouragement for Education
CM persuades eldest daughter to resume studies
During the video call, Chief Minister Sukhu engaged with the eldest daughter, who had stopped her education after Class 10 to care for her younger siblings. When she expressed a wish to seek employment nearby instead of continuing her studies, the Chief Minister encouraged her to finish Classes 11 and 12, emphasizing that education would open up better opportunities for her and her siblings.
He assured the children that the state would cover all educational expenses and recommended they stay in a government hostel, where they would receive proper food, accommodation, and safety. “Many girls live in hostels; you will be completely safe while pursuing your education,” he reassured the eldest daughter.
Government Support and Future Security
Financial burden eased, kids declared ‘Children of the State’
The children informed the Chief Minister about a loan of approximately Rs 95,000 on their land. Sukhu assured them that their land would be protected and that the state would assist their elder brother, who is currently working in Chennai.
The Himachal Pradesh government has officially recognized the siblings as “Children of the State,” committing to cover all their expenses, including education, food, and daily necessities. They will also receive a monthly allowance until they turn 27, along with financial support for their future weddings.
Their situation gained attention after visuals of the siblings huddled in a dilapidated hut surfaced, prompting public and administrative action.
Following this, members of the District Child Welfare Committee and local officials intervened under the Sukhashray Yojana, providing safe shelter, nutritious food, supervision, and a pathway for education and rehabilitation.