If you have always wanted to visit famous religious destinations like Haridwar, Rishikesh, Mathura-Vrindavan, or Khatu Shyam Ji but were worried about the cost, there is good news.
The Punjab government has expanded its free pilgrimage scheme for senior citizens.
Under this initiative, eligible elderly people can travel to several religious places without paying for transport, accommodation, or food.
Three New Pilgrimage Routes Added
The announcement was made by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal during an event in Talwara, Hoshiarpur district.
Starting from August, three new pilgrimage routes will be included under the scheme:
Khatu Shyam Ji – Salasar
Haridwar – Rishikesh
Mathura – Vrindavan
Registration for these new routes will also begin in August.
Free Travel, Food and Stay for Around 1.5 Lakh Devotees
The Punjab government plans to provide free pilgrimage facilities to nearly 1.5 lakh devotees.
Under the scheme, the government will bear the full cost of:
AC bus travel
Accommodation
Food
Other essential facilities during the journey
Until now, the scheme covered pilgrimages to Sri Darbar Sahib and Sri Anandpur Sahib.
With the addition of new destinations, more senior citizens will be able to benefit from the initiative.
Update on Mawan Dhiyan Satkar Yojana
During the event, Kejriwal also spoke about the Mawan Dhiyan Satkar Yojana.
He said that women who have already registered but have not yet received financial assistance will get the pending amount in a single payment on August 1.
He also announced that women belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC) category will receive higher financial assistance.
Who Can Apply for the Free Pilgrimage Scheme?
To be eligible for the Chief Minister’s Pilgrimage Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:
Must be a permanent resident of Punjab.
Must be 60 years of age or older.
Should not have used the Punjab government’s free pilgrimage scheme in the last three years.
Must be medically fit to travel and provide a medical fitness certificate.
Preference is given to senior citizens from BPL or economically weaker families.
Must have an Aadhaar card with a Punjab address.
How to Apply
Eligible applicants can apply for the scheme in two ways:
Visit the official Punjab government portal and submit the application online.
Collect and submit the application form at the district headquarters.
Applicants should keep the following documents ready:
Medical fitness certificate
Aadhaar card with Punjab address
Voter ID
Passport-size photograph
If you or a family member is eligible, this scheme offers a great opportunity to visit some of India’s most popular religious destinations without worrying about travel and accommodation expenses.
