Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated a special 'Children of the State Tour' on Tuesday, marking a significant initiative for the holistic development of young residents in the state's Child Care Institutions (CCIs). The tour is a key component of the Mukhyamantri Sukh-Aashray Yojana.
A Journey of Exposure and National Integration
Before flagging off the tour, CM Sukhu personally interacted with the participating children. He encouraged them to embrace this unique opportunity for learning and growth. "This will help you gain knowledge, experience diverse cultures and broaden your understanding of the country," the Chief Minister told the young participants.
The tour is designed with clear objectives:
- Promoting national integration among the youth.
- Providing exposure to India's rich cultural heritage and modern infrastructure.
- Visiting leading educational institutions to inspire academic aspirations.
Sukhu reiterated his government's commitment under the Sukh-Aashray Yojana, which focuses not just on care and protection but on creating opportunities for a secure and dignified future for vulnerable children.
Itinerary: A Pan-India Educational Expedition
A total of 52 children from various CCIs across Himachal Pradesh are part of this expedition. The tour commenced on Tuesday and is scheduled to continue until January 15.
The children will embark on a multi-city journey, experiencing different modes of transport including Volvo buses, trains, and air travel. The detailed itinerary includes:
- Chandigarh & Delhi: In the national capital, the group will visit historical landmarks like the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, India Gate, Raj Ghat, and various national museums.
- Agra: The iconic Taj Mahal is on the agenda for this leg of the journey.
- Goa: The coastal visit will include beaches, famous churches and temples, a cruise experience, and a tour of the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS).
Ensuring Safety and Well-being
Chief Minister Sukhu issued clear directives to the concerned officials, emphasizing the paramount importance of the safety and well-being of all children throughout the duration of the tour. The state administration has been tasked with making all necessary arrangements to ensure a smooth, secure, and enriching experience for the young travelers.
This initiative underscores the state government's proactive approach to welfare, aiming to bridge exposure gaps and empower children in institutional care with broader perspectives and memorable life experiences.
