Haryana Chief Minister Flags Off Inaugural Special Pilgrimage Train to Ayodhya
In a significant move to enhance affordable religious travel, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini officially launched the state's first special pilgrimage train on Saturday. The train, carrying devotees from Ambala to Ayodhya, marks a historic expansion of the government's efforts to facilitate spiritual journeys for citizens.
A Historic and Emotional Moment for the State
Addressing the gathering at the flag-off ceremony in Ambala, Chief Minister Saini described the occasion as a "historic and emotional moment" for Haryana. He expressed pride in initiating the pilgrimage train from a region associated with Lord Krishna to Ayodhya, the revered birthplace of Lord Rama.
"The grand temple of Lord Rama stands as a powerful symbol of national pride," Saini stated, congratulating the pilgrims. He emphasized that securing the opportunity for darshan after the consecration of Ram Lalla represents a moment of great fortune for devotees.
Spiritual Significance and Government Initiatives
Saini highlighted that the pilgrimage to Ayodhya transcends a mere physical journey, offering a deeply spiritual experience. Pilgrims are expected to feel divine energy while visiting the banks of the Saryu River, offering prayers at Hanuman Garhi, and entering the majestic Ram temple.
The chief minister detailed that the Haryana government has formalized an agreement with the railways to streamline such pilgrimage tours. Over 700 elderly pilgrims from seven districts are traveling on this inaugural special train to Ayodhya. Saini assured that comprehensive arrangements for food, safety, and comfort have been meticulously planned, thanking railway officials for their unwavering support.
Expanding Access Under Mukhyamantri Teerth Yatra Yojana
Emphasizing the state government's commitment to senior citizens and economically weaker devotees, Saini asserted that no one should be deprived of visiting religious places due to financial constraints. This pilgrimage initiative is being implemented under the Mukhyamantri Teerth Yatra Yojana, which has already facilitated bus travel for devotees from districts like Kaithal, Karnal, Ambala, and Jind to Ayodhya.
Saini also announced that another special train will be operated for pilgrims traveling to Takht Sri Hazur Sahib in Nanded during the last week of April, further broadening the scheme's reach.
Broader Pilgrimage Schemes and Financial Assistance
The chief minister referenced other state-run pilgrimage programs designed to support devotees:
- Sindhu Darshan Yojana: Provides financial assistance of Rs 10,000 per pilgrim, with an annual cap of 50 passengers.
- Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Scheme: Offers financial aid of Rs 50,000 per pilgrim.
- Swarn Jayanti Guru Darshan Yatra Yojana: Grants Rs 6,000 per person for visits to Takht Sri Hazur Sahib, Nankana Sahib, Hemkunt Sahib, and Takht Patna Sahib.
Saini noted that places like Ayodhya serve as vital centers of cultural and spiritual energy, reinforcing the importance of these initiatives.
Enhanced Accessibility Through IRCTC Partnership
Director General of Information, Public Relations, and Languages K. Makrand Pandurang explained that the pilgrimage scheme reflects the chief minister's visionary approach. The initiative has been expanded through a memorandum of understanding with the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), enabling free train travel for senior citizens above 60 years of age with an annual family income below Rs 1.8 lakh.
Pandurang added that thousands of elderly citizens have already undertaken pilgrimages to Ayodhya and other religious sites via luxury buses under the scheme. The introduction of dedicated train services is set to significantly enhance accessibility and comfort for pilgrims, making spiritual journeys more feasible for all.
Ceremony Attendance and Health Visit
The flag-off ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including former minister Aseem Goel, former minister Santosh Chauhan Sarwan, senior officials, and public representatives, underscoring the collective support for this initiative.
Later in the day, Chief Minister Saini visited the residence of Haryana Energy, Transport, and Labour Minister Anil Vij in Ambala Cantonment to enquire about his health and wish him a speedy recovery. Upon arrival, Vij welcomed the chief minister by presenting him with a bouquet and a ceremonial shawl, highlighting the camaraderie within the state's leadership.
