Returning from their first-ever air journey and a memorable stay in three-star hotels, 22 Children of the State met Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu at his official residence, Oak Over in Shimla today. The children who recently completed a 13-day educational and recreational tour, shared their experiences and expressed gratitude for these unforgettable moments.
Interacting with the children, the Chief Minister inquired about their experiences during the trip. Nancy, a Class 12 student, described her excitement during the air travel, saying, “It was thrilling to experience everything from the airport arrangements to the air journey. We also visited historic monuments that brought centuries of India’s rich history to life.”
Kashish shared her fascination with the exhibits at the Science Museum in Delhi and her joy during the fantasy rides. Meanwhile, Dharmendra recalled the group’s fun-filled moments at Goa’s beaches, where they danced and enjoyed to their hearts’ content. He added, “We learned the importance of discipline while traveling in a group and how to plan for air travel.”
All the children acknowledged the Chief Minister’s care and vision, saying, “If it weren’t for CM Sir, we would have remained mere objects of sympathy. But his initiative has given us the status of Children of the State, for which we are forever grateful.”
Chief Minister Sukhu humbly responded, stating, “This is not a favour. It is your right to benefit from the state’s resources. Through the Mukhyamantri Sukhashray Yojana, the state government has enacted laws to ensure that orphaned children are taken care of as Children of the State. The Government will act as their guardian, providing support for their upbringing, education, and self-reliance.”
He emphasized, “Just as parents take their children on trips, the Himachal Pradesh government is committed to offering similar experiences to the Children of the State. These trips are designed to provide learning and exposure that will help them contribute to society and the Nation in the future.”
This group of Children of the State, the first from Shimla district, visited Pinjore, Chandigarh, Delhi and Goa during their journey. They traveled by India’s premier Shatabdi Express train, stayed in three-star hotels, and explored numerous historical sites. Their journey commenced on January 2, flagged off by the Chief Minister himself, and concluded on January 14, when they returned to Shimla.
Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil, MLA Sanjay Awasthi, Mayor MC Shimla Surinder Chauhan, Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap and several other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.