MAHARASHTRA’S PILGRIMAGE SCHEME: FREE PILGRIMAGES FOR SENIOR CITIZENS

Why in the news?

  • The Maharashtra government has introduced the Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana, offering free pilgrimages to senior citizens above 60 years.
  • The scheme was detailed in a Government Resolution issued 14th July after State Cabinet approval.

About Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana:

  • 139 religious sites are included: 73 across India and 66 within Maharashtra.
  • Notable sites include Vaishno Devi, Amarnath, Golden Temple, Char Dham Yatra, Ram Temple, and important Buddhist and Jain locations.
  • Beneficiaries will be selected through a lottery system from the applications received.
  • This initiative aims to facilitate spiritual journeys for senior citizens, promoting cultural and religious exploration.
Source: Shikhar
About Char Dham :

Yamunotri Dham

  • Location: Uttarkashi district
  • Dedicated to: Goddess Yamuna
  • Significance: River Yamuna is the second-most sacred river in India after River Ganga

Gangotri Dham

  • Location: Uttarkashi district
  • Dedicated to: Goddess Ganga
  • Significance: Considered the most sacred of all Indian rivers

Kedarnath Dham

  • Location: Rudraprayag district
  • Dedicated to: Lord Shiva
  • Significance: Situated on the bank of the Mandakini River, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India

Badrinath Dham

  • Location: Chamoli district
  • Dedicated to: Lord Vishnu
  • Significance: Home to the sacred Badrinarayan Temple, one of the holy shrines for Vaishnavites.