Himachal Pradesh Launches Educational Tour for Orphaned Children
Empowering Vulnerable Youth Through Exploration
Munish Sood
SHIMLA: Aiming to foster the comprehensive development of children in Child Care Institutions (CCIs), the Himachal Pradesh government initiated a special educational and exposure program called “Children of the State Tour” on Tuesday. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated the program by sending off a Volvo bus carrying 52 children from the Shimla Secretariat, emphasizing the government's dedication to nurturing and empowering at-risk youth.
Before their departure, the Chief Minister engaged with the children, encouraging them to embrace this unique opportunity to explore, learn, and enjoy new experiences. He expressed that the tour would broaden their knowledge, help them appreciate India's diversity, and cultivate a wider national perspective.
Exploration, Learning, and National Unity
The 10-day journey, set to conclude on January 15, 2026, will take the children to key cities such as Chandigarh, Delhi, Agra, and Goa. The itinerary is crafted to blend education, recreation, and cultural exposure, allowing the children to experience India's rich heritage, modern infrastructure, and top educational institutions.
In Delhi, the children will visit significant sites including the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, India Gate, Raj Ghat, Shakti Sthal, Veer Bhoomi, Humayun’s Tomb, the National Zoological Park, the National Science Museum, North and South Blocks, the Indian Council of World Affairs, Triveni Kala Sangam, and the National Museum of Natural History. They will also have the chance to see the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra.
Goa Visit to Enhance Scientific and Cultural Awareness
During their time in Goa, the children will explore renowned beaches, churches, and temples, enjoy a pleasure cruise, and visit the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services to boost their scientific and environmental knowledge. The children will travel using various modes of transport, including Volvo buses, air travel, and rail, as well as hop-on hop-off tourist buses.
The Chief Minister highlighted that such exposure tours are vital for fostering self-confidence, curiosity, national awareness, and social consciousness among children. He instructed officials to prioritize the safety, comfort, and well-being of the children throughout the trip, noting that accommodations have been arranged in three-star hotels.
Sukh-Aashray Yojana: The State as Guardian
CM Sukhu reiterated that under the flagship Mukhyamantri Sukh-Aashray Yojana, the state government has assumed full responsibility for children who have lost their parents. “These children are now under the direct care of the state and must receive the same opportunities and experiences as any child growing up in a family,” he stated.
Since taking office, the Chief Minister has visited the Balika Ashram at Tutikandi in Shimla, committing to the care and welfare of destitute children, women, and senior citizens. Himachal Pradesh has become the first state in India to enact a dedicated law for these vulnerable groups.
As of February 28, 2023, approximately 4,000 orphaned children have been recognized as “Children of the State,” receiving extensive support that includes education, healthcare, housing, pocket money, career counseling, national and international exposure visits, and a provision of Rs 2 lakh to assist them in starting their own ventures.
The Chief Minister also announced plans for similar educational tours for Children of the State from other districts, directing Deputy Commissioners to facilitate these initiatives. Additionally, he noted that the state has commenced the New Year with a significant relief measure by approving employment for 980 compassionate dependents in the first phase under the compassionate appointment policy, providing essential stability to affected families.