Odisha Flags Off Pilgrimage Train for 775 Senior Citizens to Ayodhya and Varanasi
Sambalpur — In a heartwarming initiative under the Baristha Nagarika Tirtha Yatra Yojana, the Odisha government flagged off a special pilgrimage train from Sambalpur Railway Station to Ayodhya and Varanasi, carrying 775 senior citizens from eight districts.
The ceremonial departure was led by Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari and Panchayati Raj Minister Rabi Narayan Naik, with support from the Odisha Tourism Department, Indian Railways, and district administrations.
Local dignitaries, including Sambalpur MLA Jaynarayan Mishra and IG Himanshu Lal were present.
The pilgrims hail from Sambalpur (89), Subarnapur (52), Deogarh (27), Angul (109), Jharsuguda (50), Sundargarh (180), Bolangir (141), and Bargarh (127).
The government has arranged food, water, shelter, medical checkups, and deployed 25 escort officers along with a dedicated medical team to ensure the safety and comfort of the travellers.
Minister Naik highlighted that nearly 8,000 elderly citizens have benefited from the scheme so far, while Minister Pujari emphasised its role in fulfilling the spiritual aspirations of economically weaker senior citizens.
This initiative reflects Odisha’s commitment to inclusive welfare and cultural preservation, offering a meaningful journey to those who might otherwise never experience such sacred destinations.
