Himachal Pradesh’s Sukh-Ashray scheme aided 791 children in Mandi district by September 2026

Himachal Pradesh’s Mukhyamantri Sukh-Ashray Scheme had benefited 791 orphaned and semi-orphaned children in Mandi district by 30 September 2026. Spending across the financial years 2023–24, 2024–25 and 2025–26, and up to that date, totalled ₹12,94,74,392.

Financial and educational assistance

Fully orphaned children receive ₹4,000 a month in social-security support. Children living in childcare institutions receive ₹1,000 or ₹2,500 monthly, according to category. Mandi district spent more than ₹6.53 crore on social security and about ₹51 lakh on nutrition. Institutionalised children also receive ₹500 per child for each festival; more than ₹33 lakh was distributed under this provision.

In the district, 72 fully orphaned children received about ₹36 lakh for higher education, while 50 children received more than ₹26 lakh for vocational training. A further 23 beneficiaries received ₹42.46 lakh to start self-employment.

Housing and other support

Marriage grants totalling ₹1.29 crore went to 65 beneficiaries, while 108 eligible beneficiaries received ₹2.10 crore for house construction. Three landless beneficiaries were allotted two biswa of land each to build homes.

Important Facts for Exams

• Need-based eligibility: Social assistance is based on need alone, whereas social insurance supports people who have previously contributed; the distinction separates two bases for welfare eligibility.
• Learning settings: Vocational education may be delivered through formal, non-formal or informal learning, in either school-based or work-based settings.
• Scheme legislation: Himachal Pradesh enacted the Sukh-Aashray (Care, Protection and Self-Reliance of Children) Act in 2023, providing a statutory framework for the scheme.
• Child protection authority: Under the Juvenile Justice Act, Child Welfare Committees decide cases involving children needing care and protection, including orders for their care and rehabilitation.