CM Flags Off First AC Train Under Senior Citizen Pilgrimage Scheme

Senior Citizens are Pillars of Society, Pilgrimage Sites Strengthen Sanatan Culture: CM Bhajanlal Sharma
Rajasthan Government to Facilitate Pilgrimage for 50,000 Senior Citizens in AC Trains

Jaipur : Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma on Friday formally launched the 2025–26 edition of the Senior Citizen Pilgrimage Scheme by cutting the ribbon and flagging off the first fully air-conditioned “Rajasthan Vahini Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train” from Durgapura Railway Station. Under this initiative, senior citizens will travel to sacred sites in Rameswaram and Madurai. CM Sharma personally met the pilgrims and extended his best wishes for a smooth and fulfilling journey.

Speaking on the occasion, CM Sharma said that senior citizens are a valuable treasure and an essential pillar of society. “Their experiences and values guide us on the right path in life. This pilgrimage scheme is a heartfelt expression of service, respect, and gratitude towards those who have dedicated their lives in service of society and the nation,” he stated.

Pilgrimage Sites Foster Unity and Preserve Sanatan Culture

CM Sharma emphasized that pilgrimage destinations play a vital role in preserving Sanatan Dharma and promoting social harmony. He recalled that Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya recognized their spiritual importance and established Char Dham across four corners of India. “Every individual aspires to visit sacred places in their lifetime. This scheme has been inspired by the deep desire of our elders to see these holy places,” he added.

He assured that all necessary amenities—food, lodging, and travel facilities—will be provided free of cost to the pilgrims during their journey by the state government.

PM Modi Gave New Energy to India’s Cultural Heritage

The Chief Minister also lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying that since 2014, he has made significant strides in reviving India’s rich spiritual and cultural legacy. “His leadership has infused new energy into Sanatan values. From the development of Somnath, the creation of Mahakal Lok, and the revival of Kedarnath Valley, to the consecration of Ram Lalla in the grand temple in Ayodhya—PM Modi has led from the front,” Sharma said.

Rajasthan Government Committed to Senior Welfare

CM Sharma reiterated that the Rajasthan government is continuously striving to improve the quality of life for senior citizens. Under the current phase of the pilgrimage scheme, 50,000 senior citizens will be taken to 13 different pilgrimage destinations in AC trains for the first time. Additionally, around 6,000 devotees have already been flown to Nepal to visit the Pashupatinath temple.

The Chief Minister also highlighted other measures taken in the interest of senior citizens and religious devotees, including:

• Increased monthly offerings for 593 government-managed temples within and outside the state.
• Festival celebrations at various temples.
• Renovation projects and the development of public facilities at temples.

The event was attended by Minister of Devasthan Joraram Kumawat, Members of Parliament Madan Rathore and Manju Sharma, Mayor of Jaipur Greater Municipal Corporation Soumya Gurjar, numerous public representatives, and a large gathering of pilgrims and their families.