The Rajasthan government has launched a landmark initiative to send 50,000 senior citizens on pilgrimage journeys across India in air-conditioned trains, under the Senior Citizen Pilgrimage Scheme 2025-26. The move, which aims to strengthen social welfare measures for the elderly, reflects the state's commitment to cultural preservation and care for its aging population.

The first step in this large-scale pilgrimage campaign began with Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma flagging off the inaugural AC 'Rajasthan Vahini Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train' from Durgapura railway station in Jaipur on Friday, June 7, 2025.

Inaugural Train to Rameswaram and Madurai

The first AC train under this scheme will carry a group of senior citizens to the revered pilgrimage destinations of Rameswaram and Madurai in Tamil Nadu. These holy cities hold immense religious significance in Hindu tradition and are part of the char-dham-inspired pilgrimage circuits often promoted in Indian spiritual tourism.

At the flag-off event, CM Sharma shared his heartfelt best wishes for a safe and spiritually enriching journey for the pilgrims. He also interacted with many of the elderly travelers, emphasizing their value as pillars of society whose guidance and ideals illuminate the path for future generations.

Key Highlights of the Scheme

Under the Senior Citizen Pilgrimage Scheme 2025-26, the Rajasthan government has planned a series of trips that will cover 13 major religious destinations across India. These will be executed via air-conditioned Bharat Gaurav Tourist Trains, specially arranged for elderly citizens to travel comfortably.

The key highlights include:

• 50,000 beneficiaries will be chosen from across the state for pilgrimage tours.

• Pilgrimages will cover prominent spiritual sites such as Rameswaram, Madurai, Varanasi, Amritsar, Dwarka, Badrinath, Jagannath Puri, and others.

• The scheme is fully state-sponsored, covering travel, meals, accommodation, and medical assistance.

• Special care teams and medical professionals will accompany the passengers.

Extending Spiritual Access Through Air and Rail

In addition to rail travel, the Rajasthan government had earlier arranged airborne pilgrimages, transporting nearly 6,000 devotees to the Pashupatinath Temple in Nepal via chartered planes. This marked the first time a state government facilitated international pilgrimage access by air for its senior citizens, setting a precedent in religious tourism.

Welfare and Cultural Integration

Speaking at the inauguration, CM Bhajanlal Sharma reiterated the government’s ongoing commitment to improving the lives of the elderly in Rajasthan. By introducing structured, dignified pilgrimage opportunities, the state is enriching both the spiritual lives and well-being of its senior population.

“The elderly are an integral part of our society,” said Sharma. “Their experiences, blessings, and wisdom form the very foundation on which we can build a better future. Providing them with such opportunities is not just a welfare measure, but a moral and cultural duty.”

The initiative also supports intergenerational cultural transfer, encouraging youth to remain connected with India’s spiritual roots through stories and experiences shared by elders.

Boost to Domestic Religious Tourism

The scheme also aligns with the broader national push towards religious and spiritual tourism, championed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whom CM Sharma credited for “revitalizing India’s Sanatan cultural identity.”

By leveraging the Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train network, the government not only enhances convenience for pilgrims but also supports Indian Railways' tourism initiatives. These trains are equipped with modern amenities, including:

• AC coaches with comfortable seating and sleeping arrangements.

• Onboard catering providing vegetarian meals.

• Medical support and caretakers for elderly passengers.

• Special attention to hygiene, security, and ease of travel.

Implementation and Transparency

The selection of beneficiaries under this scheme is expected to follow a transparent process, ensuring equal opportunity across districts. The Department of Devasthan and Tourism will collaborate with local administrative bodies to shortlist eligible participants based on age, health condition, and interest.

Digital registration, health check-ups, and counseling will be part of the onboarding process, ensuring safety and suitability of candidates for long-distance travel.

Impact Beyond Religious Travel

The initiative is likely to have multidimensional benefits:

• Social inclusion: Helping senior citizens feel valued and engaged.

• Mental well-being: Providing spiritual rejuvenation and emotional satisfaction.

• Cultural preservation: Reinforcing ancient traditions and customs.

• Economic stimulation: Boosting local economies at pilgrimage destinations.

Future Outlook and Government’s Vision

Rajasthan’s senior citizen pilgrimage scheme is poised to become a model for other states, blending compassionate governance with cultural sensitivity. With a focus on comfort, dignity, and spirituality, this initiative reflects the state's broader social welfare agenda.

CM Sharma hinted that more destinations and increased capacity could be added in future editions of the program, depending on the success of this year’s operations.

Conclusion

With the launch of the Senior Citizen Pilgrimage Scheme 2025-26, Rajasthan has taken a progressive step towards honoring its elderly population while reaffirming India’s rich spiritual heritage. By facilitating safe, comfortable, and deeply meaningful pilgrimages, the state is setting new standards in inclusive governance and cultural stewardship. As 50,000 elderly citizens embark on these sacred journeys, they carry with them not just prayers and devotion, but also the renewed respect and care of an evolving welfare state.

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