The scheme “Baristha Nagarika Tirtha Yatra Yojana” was launched by the Department of Tourism, Government of Odisha on 01st February 2016 in collaboration with IRCTC to help senior citizens over 60-75 years of age to undertake pilgrimage with Government assistance.
💰The scheme offers a great opportunity to the poor and deprived senior citizens (60-75 years) of the State to the realization of their lifelong dream of having one Tirtha Darshan (Pilgrimage) and fulfill their spiritual aspirations, with the support of the state. | - This scheme will be offered to people of all regions/faiths. | - The scheme is envisaged to help senior citizens over 60-75 years of age to undertake pilgrimage with Government assistance. | Facilities for pilgrims: | - The district administration will make arrangements for transportation of the selected pilgrims including their attendants to district HQ and further to the “Starting Point” i.e. originating railway station or directly from home to the starting point and also on the return journey from the “Starting Point “ back to their homes. | - Arrangements for stay and food for the pilgrims coming from various districts on the day previous to the actual departure will be done by the district administration of the “Starting Point” i.e. originating station. | - Vegetarian Meals, Breakfast, Tea & Snacks with Drinking Water throughout the journey, Road transport, Accommodation in nearby destinations, Tour escorts, tour guides, travel insurance, and medical facilities with professional physicians shall be provided by IRCTC. | - The tentative food menu to be provided at the starting point by the Tourism Department as well as during the journey by IRCTC are as follows: Break Fast-8-9 AM- Upama & Dalma/ Puri & Veg. Mix. Curry/Idlee, Sambar, and Tea & Water, (b) Lunch- 12 Noon-2 PM- Veg.-Rice/Roti, Dal, one Curry, one Veg. Fry, Khata, Water, (c) Tea & Biscuits- 4-5 PM, (d) Dinner- 7-9 PM- Veg.-Rice/ Roti, Dal, Veg. Curry & Water. | - The travel kit shall be provided by IRCTC to the pilgrims within a cost as per the MOU signed between the state Govt. & IRCTC for each year. The kit shall contain a toothbrush, toothpaste, coconut oil, shampoo, bathing & washing soap, bedsheet, blanket, cap, towel, hand napkin, comb, mirror, identity card & a bag. The bag shall be properly branded with the Odisha Tourism logo. | - If pilgrims desire to avail of any facility other than that prescribed by the Government during the journey, then they will have to make payment for the same. Tourism Dept. / IRCTC cannot take responsibility for the extra services desired by the pilgrims.