CHANDIGARH, Sep 17: Punjab Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond on Thursday said the state government’s Mukh Mantri Tirath Yatra Scheme has enabled 5,10,807 devotees to visit religious destinations within Punjab and in other states.
Sond said the initiative was introduced to help elderly residents undertake visits to places of religious significance by providing transportation and other essential facilities without cost.
The programme was launched on November 9, 2025. During its initial phase, nearly four lakh pilgrims travelled to Sri Amritsar Sahib, Sri Anandpur Sahib and Mata Naina Devi, according to the minister.
The government subsequently expanded the programme on August 12, 2026, adding destinations including Shri Khatu Shyam-Salasar Balaji Dham, Haridwar-Rishikesh and Mathura-Vrindavan.
Under the expanded guidelines, residents aged 50 years and above can avail themselves of the pilgrimage facility. Eligible participants are provided AC sleeper bus transportation, accommodation and meals free of charge.
Sond said comprehensive arrangements have been put in place to ensure the safety and convenience of travellers. General attendants and medical personnel accompany each bus, while dedicated teams remain stationed at pilgrimage destinations to assist participants.
The facilities also include air conditioned accommodation equipped with suitable washrooms, along with food and other necessary amenities during the journey.
The minister said the scheme is intended to make religious travel more accessible to eligible residents while ensuring that pilgrims receive necessary support throughout their journey.