Launched in June 2012, this scheme provides a one-time free pilgrimage to senior citizens of Madhya Pradesh to visit sites like Rameshwaram, Badrinath, Jagannath Puri, Dwarka, Vaishno Devi, and Shirdi.
Benefits
- Free travel via special trains.
- Provision of breakfast, meals, pure drinking water, and accommodation.
- Bus travel for local transfers where necessary.
- Managed by IRCTC.
Eligibility
- Native of Madhya Pradesh.
- Age: Men 60+, Women 58+.
- No age limit for disabled citizens (60%+ disability).
- Applicant must not be a taxpayer.
- Must be physically and mentally fit (medical certificate required).
- Must not have taken benefit of the scheme previously.
- One helper is allowed for single pilgrims over 65 or disabled citizens over 60%.
Application Process (Offline)
- Step 1: Collect form from the nearest Tahsil or download from https://dharmasva.mp.gov.in/.
- Step 2: Submit two copies of the form with documents to the Tahsil office.
- Selection: The Collector selects pilgrims place-wise. If applications exceed the quota, selection is via lottery.
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card or Voter ID.
- Residence proof (Ration card, Electricity bill, etc.).
- Colored passport-size photo.
- Disability certificate (if applicable).
- Age proof and Medical Fitness Certificate.