For many senior citizens, visiting a religious site they have wanted to see for years can be difficult because of travel and accommodation expenses.
Madhya Pradesh has a scheme aimed at making such pilgrimages easier for elderly residents.
Under the Chief Minister Teerth Darshan Yojana, eligible senior citizens can undertake pilgrimages to major religious destinations with several expenses covered by the state government.
What Does The Scheme Cover?
The government provides arrangements for pilgrims during the journey, including:
– Train or bus travel, with air travel available in select cases
– Food and accommodation
– Local transportation
– Assistance from guides during the pilgrimage
The scheme periodically covers destinations such as Mathura-Vrindavan and Vaishno Devi, among other religious sites.
Who Can Apply?
Senior citizens who meet the prescribed eligibility conditions can apply for the scheme.
– Age: Men aged 60 years and above are eligible. The minimum age for women is 58 years.
– Residency: Applicants must meet the Madhya Pradesh domicile requirement.
– Income: Applicable family income limits and exemptions may apply depending on the current scheme guidelines.
Applicants must also meet the required health and fitness conditions.
How To Apply?
Interested applicants can submit their applications through the official pilgrimage portal at tirth.samagra.gov.in or approach their nearest tehsil or district office.
Applicants are generally required to keep documents such as an identity card, age proof, domicile certificate and income-related documents ready.
A fitness certificate issued by a government doctor is also required before undertaking the pilgrimage.
Helpline For Information
For queries related to the scheme, applicants can contact the helpline at 0755-2512091.
Since pilgrimage schedules, destinations and eligibility rules can change, applicants should check the latest information with their district administration or the concerned government portal before applying.