Himachal CM Sukhu celebrates Diwali with children, announces welfare schemes
SHIMLA, Oct 19: Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today visited the Tutikandi Bal Ashram here to celebrate the festival of lights with the inmates of the Ashram.
The children and staff welcomed the Chief Minister with traditional earthen lamps and colourful cultural performances. Sukhu interacted with the children, distributed sweets and gifts, and extended Deepawali greetings.
“The true spirit of Diwali lies in sharing joy, compassion, and togetherness. These children are our future, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure they grow up with love, dignity and opportunities,” Sukhu said.
Sukhu stated that the State Government has adopted the orphaned children as “children of the state,” bearing their education expenses and providing Rs 4,000 per month as pocket money.
He announced that residential facilities in the State’s Bal Ashrams would be upgraded, along with enhanced amenities. Sukhu also announced that the government would soon launch new welfare schemes specifically aimed at orphans and vulnerable children to ensure their holistic development.
He further announced that a Sports Day would be organised for the Ashram children on November 14 every year, with adequate budgetary provision. The Chief Minister also said that students of the Bal Ashrams would be sent on educational tours outside the State to provide them with better exposure and learning experiences. He exhorted the children to focus on their studies and serve the nation in different capacities, bringing laurels to the State.
Mayor Surinder Chauhan, Deputy Mayor Uma Kaundal, Director Women and Child Welfare Pankaj Lalit, and Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap were present.
Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, and Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri conveyed their heartfelt greetings and good wishes to the people of Himachal Pradesh on Diwali.
The Governor wished for the good health, prosperity, and well-being of the people. He stated: “Diwali, the festival of lights, symbolises the triumph of good over evil, of light over darkness and of knowledge over ignorance.” He added that on this day, “lamps are lit not merely to brighten our homes but also to rekindle the eternal truth and moral values of life.”
The Chief Minister, in his message, said that the festival “not only illuminates our households but also enlightens our hearts and society with the spirit of righteousness and collective goodwill.” He appealed to the people to celebrate the festival with peace, unity, and mutual respect and to contribute towards building a progressive and prosperous Himachal Pradesh.
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri said that Diwali conveys the message of love, compassion and brotherhood. He urged the people to mark the festival with a spirit of togetherness so that the light of joy and hope spreads across every household and every life.
(UNI)
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