TFP Bureau, Raipur; February 24, 2024: An important milestone was marked today in the facilitation of pilgrimage to Ayodhya for devotees from Chhattisgarh as an MoU was signed between the Chhattisgarh Tourism Board and IRCTC. The signing ceremony took place in the esteemed presence of Tourism and Culture Minister Shri Brijmohan Agarwal at the Assembly premises. Deputy Chief Minister Shri Arun Saav also graced the occasion with his presence.
Under the Shri Ramlala Darshan Scheme, a special train service will commence from Chhattisgarh to Ayodhya, allowing approximately 850 devotees to undertake the pilgrimage every week. The inaugural journey of this 12-coach train is scheduled for March 5.
Addressing the gathering, Tourism and Culture Minister Shri Brijmohan Aggarwal expressed the government’s commitment to fulfilling Prime Minister Modi’s vision and ensuring seamless pilgrimage experiences. He outlined that the scheme encompasses a comprehensive package covering travel arrangements, accommodation, temple visits, as well as meals for devotees. Additionally, each train will be equipped with tour escorts, security personnel, and medical teams. The MoU, signed for an initial period of 3 years, is extendable up to 2 years.
Minister Shri Aggarwal further elaborated on the application process, indicating that district collectors will oversee the selection of beneficiaries and compile passenger lists based on allocated quotas. Moreover, plans are underway to expand the pilgrimage coverage to include visits to Lord Vishwanath in Kashi and other sacred sites in Prayagraj in the near future.
The MoU signing ceremony witnessed the participation of key officials, including Managing Director of Chhattisgarh Tourism Board, Shri Jitendra Shukla, and Deputy General Manager of IRCTC, Shri Subhash Chandra. Notable dignitaries such as MLA Mr. Sushant Shukla, Mrs. Gomti Sai, and former MLA Dr. Krishna Kumar Bandhi also graced the event, underscoring the significance of this initiative in promoting religious tourism and cultural exchange.
