23rd May 2023, Mumbai : Madhya Pradesh became the first state in India to providing the free air ticket to the old age pensioner for holy expenditure. When 32 people Pilgrim left for the prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh from Raja Bhoj airport, Bhopal. On Sunday I.e. 21st May 2023, under the Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana in the presence of Chief Minister of Madhya pradesh Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
On the beautiful occasion, CM said our government is resolve to take the elders on pilgrimage by flight. And today’s is the day, the dream come true, 32 people already started their journey towards holy place. The yojna has been started with the aim, that our elder could attain the holy places for spiritual peace, He said – At present, one member from a family can go on pilgrimage by plane under the scheme. From next visit, arrangements will be made for more than one member from a family to go on pilgrimage, so that elders are able to go with their spouses. Travel by rail under this scheme will also continue.
CM inaugurated the Teerth Darshan Yojana by air scheme by lighting the lamp. And started with 32 old age pilgrim, in which 24 males and 8 females are there in the first pilgrimage to Prayagraj by plane.
Shawls and coconut also gives to the pilgrim as a token of honour. It is written that The state government will bear the travel expenses. As CM express his feeling by saying today is a lovely day, the dream of every senior citizen to travel by plan is being fulfilled.
CM further said – A person seeks Inner tranquilly. My resolution was accomplished today. Prime Minister Narendra Modi used to say that those who wear slippers should also get the opportunity to travel by air. His words are coming true now.
Also, Bharatiya Janata Party veteran added – “Our elders are going to holy Prayagraj. With the grace of Ram, you will go on pilgrimages and we as well as the state will get your blessings. Currently, only a member of one family is going, but moving forward, senior couples will be able to travel together. Grandfather and grandmother will both board the next flight.”
CM shivraj singh chauhan, strictly instructed Usha Thakur who was a state minister of tourism and culture, to start the preparation for sending Senior citizens couples together.
This year, 25 aircraft would transport senior pilgrims from 25 districts to Prayagraj, Shirdi, Mathura, Vrindavan, and Gangasagar Dham by July 19.
As per, 7.82 lakh senior citizens have availed the benefits of the pilgrimage that was made possible by running 782 special trains.