Shinde announces pilgrimage scheme for senior citizens of all faiths
The Hindu
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced the Mukhya Mantri Teerth Darshan Yojana, a new pilgrimage scheme designed for senior citizens of all religions.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on June 28 announced the Mukhya Mantri Teerth Darshan Yojana, a new pilgrimage scheme designed for senior citizens of all religions.
This scheme aims to help elderly people who cannot visit pilgrimage sites on their own. “The Mukhya Mantri Teerth Darshan Yojana will serve senior citizens of all faiths. Maharashtra is the land of saints and every year many people visit the shrines. For this, a comprehensive policy will be framed for the scheme, and the government will facilitate pilgrimages for senior citizens from all religions who cannot undertake the journeys independently,” Mr. Shinde told the State Assembly.
Also read | Maharashtra budget 2024 highlights: Ajit Pawar cuts VAT for fuel in Mumbai, announces schemes and subsidies for women, farmers
The Chief Minister announced the scheme in the State Legislative Assembly in response to a calling attention notice by Shiv Sena legislator Pratap Sarnaik, who stated that many senior citizens are unable to fulfil their pilgrimage dreams due to financial constraints, lack of companionship, or lack of information on how to proceed.
“I urge the State government to launch a scheme that includes pilgrimage sites of all religions for senior citizens,” he said.
In response, Mr. Shinde assured that the government would facilitate the pilgrimage of senior citizens from all religious backgrounds, helping them achieve their spiritual aspirations despite any personal or financial obstacles. The Chief Minister said that the scheme will be implemented through online applications.
Similar schemes exist in Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Delhi. In Madhya Pradesh, the government provides one-time assistance to senior citizens above 60 years (with a 2-year relaxation for women) to visit a prescribed pilgrimage outside the State. Under this scheme, senior citizens receive free travel to identified pilgrimage sites in the country. The pilgrims travel by special train, and arrangements for breakfast, food, pure drinking water, stay at pilgrimage places, necessary bus travel, and other facilities are made available by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Limited (IRCTC) contracted with the state government.
Bengaluru Division achieves over 99% electrification, advancing towards 100% in line with India’s Green Railway vision by 2030.
Kerala Minister P. Rajeeve critiques Congress' silence on Karnataka's objections to the Malayalam Language Bill, emphasizing its implications for Keralites.
Kozhikode's Kolkali team makes history with a Union invitation to perform at Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi.
In 2025, over 112,000 people used '108' ambulance services in Salem and Namakkal, aiding numerous emergencies and deliveries.
Karnataka Tourism Department announces ₹367 crore upgrades, enhancing heritage, eco-tourism, and pilgrimage sites statewide.
Industries Minister T.G. Bharath announces commitment to establish a High Court Bench and Collectorate building in Kurnool.
The Udupi police arrested two persons from Mangaluru taluk in connection with the theft of copper sheets from the roof of Parashuram Theme Park in Karkala taluk of Udupi district on January 3.
BJP's Suvendu Adhikari dismisses Mamata Banerjee's allegations on electoral roll revision as baseless and politically motivated.
Commuters at Mannarpuram bus stop face exposure to the elements, urging officials to build a much-needed shelter.
PM Modi announces India's rapid progress towards becoming the world's third-largest economy, highlighting political stability and growth opportunities.
BJP central leaders favor a coalition for local body polls, but local leaders express concerns over safeguarding cadre interests.
OnBoard technology enhances bus accessibility for visually impaired passengers in Mysuru, empowering them to identify routes independently.
CJI Surya Kant emphasizes that personal interests shouldn't hinder new infrastructure development, addressing opposition from the Gauhati High Court Bar Association.