Una, February 5
Highlighting the spiritual ethos of public service, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu participated in the annual religious congregation hosted by the Shree Radhakrishna Temple Committee in Kotla Kalan, in district Una today.
Upon his arrival, the Chief Minister performed traditional prayers and sought the blessings of the revered National Saint Baba Bal Ji Maharaj, reaffirming his government’s commitment to the welfare of the people of Himachal Pradesh. Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Sukhu invoked the profound teachings of the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, stating that the state government was functioning with the spirit of “Karmayoga”, performing one’s duty selflessly without the pursuit of personal gain. He emphasized that his administration has adopted a deeply sensitive, inclusive and humanitarian approach toward the upliftment of women, the marginalized and the common citizens. He asserted that the struggle for the rights and interests of Himachal Pradesh would continue unabated, powered by the collective strength of the people and divine grace.
A significant portion of the Chief Minister’s address focused on the state’s pioneering social safety nets. He highlighted the Mukhyamantri Sukh-Aashray Yojana, noting that Himachal Pradesh has become the first state in India to grant legal “Children of the State” status to 6,000 orphans. Under this landmark initiative, the state has assumed the role of a guardian for these children up to the age of 27, covering all costs related to their education, health and general upbringing, besides providing a monthly pocket money of Rs.4000. To ensure that financial constraints do not hinder higher education, the Chief Minister also detailed the Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar Vidyarthi Rin Yojana, which offers education loans of up to Rs .20 lakh at a nominal interest rate of just one percent. He noted that this visit to the Shree Radha-Krishna Temple has once again provided him with the spiritual energy required to lead the state with integrity.
In a warm gesture of appreciation, Baba Bal Ji Maharaj lauded the Chief Minister’s dedication, remarking that the CM’s family values are deeply rooted in religious traditions. He observed that the Chief Minister is working with total devotion for the betterment of Himachal’s citizens. He recalled the temple committee’s contribution of Ram 5 lakh to the CM Relief Fund during the recent natural disaster.
