Chhattisgarh Launches Ramlala Darshan Scheme: Free Pilgrimage to Ayodhya Dham

Chhattisgarh Government will launch the Ramlala Darshan Scheme, a pilgrimage to the newly built Ram Temple at Ayodhya. The decision was made during a state cabinet meeting held in Raipur.

Cabinet Meeting Highlights

Shri Ramlala Darshan Scheme: To fulfill Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s guarantee, the state will send around 20,000 residents to Ayodhya for darshan of Shri Ramlala every year.
Eligibility: Open to Chhattisgarh residents aged 18-75 who pass a health exam. Disabled people can go with one family member.
Implementation: Chhattisgarh Tourism Board, funded by Tourism Department, will manage. District committees under District Collectors will select beneficiaries.

Travel and Logistics

- 900km journey by train from Durg-Raipur, Raigarh, and Ambikapur.
- One-night stay in Varanasi with visits to Kashi Vishwanath Temple Corridor and Ganga Aarti.
- MoU with IRCTC for security, health, food, sightseeing, local transport, and escorts.
- Weekly train initially, frequency to increase based on availability.

Additional Details

First phase prioritizes residents above 55 years.
District Collectors responsible for smooth pilgrimages, including pick-up/drop-off from stations.
Budget allocated for additional arrangements.
Government officials will accompany each pilgrimage group.