SHIMLA: In a significant move to assist vulnerable families, the Himachal Pradesh government has introduced the 'Mukhya Mantri Sukh Shiksha Yojana', with an annual budget allocation of Rs 53.21 crore. This initiative is designed to offer financial support to widows, destitute women, divorced women, and disabled parents to enhance the education and well-being of their children.

The Himachal Pradesh cabinet officially announced the scheme on Sunday. As detailed by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the scheme targets individuals with a family income not exceeding Rs 1 lakh per year.

Eligible beneficiaries will receive a monthly grant of Rs 1,000 for children under 18 years of age, intended to cover educational, health, and nutritional expenses. Additionally, financial assistance will be provided for tuition and hostel fees for children enrolling in undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, or vocational courses.

The initiative aims to address and prevent critical issues such as child abuse, trafficking, teenage marriages, and drug abuse by reinforcing child protection at the family level. It also seeks to support children of disabled parents, acknowledging the link between disability, unemployment, and poverty.

Chief Minister Sukhu highlighted the challenges faced by widowed, deserted, or abandoned women, who often struggle with limited educational and financial resources to support their children. "These women are particularly vulnerable, lacking the moral and financial support needed for sustaining their families and ensuring their children's education," Sukhu said.

The state government is committed to fostering a supportive environment for vulnerable families, ensuring that children receive the education and care necessary for leading dignified lives. "From the outset, our government has focused on amplifying the voices of underprivileged sections and has rolled out various initiatives to support them," the chief minister added.

Read Other News:

Maharashtra Government Proposes Panic Buttons in Schools Following Badlapur Sexual Assault Incident

Assam CM Urges Jharkhand Leaders Champai and Hemant Soren to Join BJP, Highlights Concerns

Haryana CM Inaugurates BJP Election Office in Rohtak, Confident of Third Consecutive Term