Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has launched the ‘Shree Jagannath Darshan’ scheme, a special initiative aimed at helping elderly citizens undertake a smooth and dignified pilgrimage to the historic Jagannath Temple in Puri. The scheme offers free travel, accommodation, and essential facilities for senior devotees.
Article Summary
- Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi launched the Shree Jagannath Darshan Scheme for senior citizens.
- The scheme offers free travel, stay, and Mahaprasad for pilgrims visiting Jagannath Temple, Puri.
- Elderly people (60–75 years) and eligible widows from weaker sections can benefit.
- The government plans to help 5,000 devotees this year and over 1 lakh beneficiaries in four years.
- Alongside the scheme, several development and healthcare projects were announced in Nabarangpur.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has launched the ‘Shree Jagannath Darshan’ scheme, a special initiative aimed at helping elderly citizens undertake a smooth and dignified pilgrimage to the historic Jagannath Temple in Puri. The scheme offers free travel, accommodation, and essential facilities for senior devotees.
The programme was officially inaugurated during a special event held in Nabarangpur district, while similar launch events took place simultaneously across several districts including Bhadrak, Baripada, Sambalpur, and Berhampur. Around 500 devotees from five districts began their spiritual journey under the scheme, accompanied by designated officials.
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According to government officials, the initiative aims to enable around 5,000 beneficiaries to visit the temple in the current year. Over the next four years, more than one lakh eligible pilgrims are expected to receive support under the programme to seek blessings at the 12th-century shrine dedicated to Lord Jagannath.
The scheme primarily benefits senior citizens aged between 60 and 75 from economically weaker sections, along with widows up to 75 years of age. Pilgrims will travel in air-conditioned buses, stay at Puri’s Brundabati Nivas, and receive Mahaprasad during their visit.
Speaking at the launch, the Chief Minister emphasised that no devotee should face obstacles in seeking blessings. He stated that the initiative reflects the vision of ensuring every Odia gets at least one opportunity in their lifetime to visit the temple with dignity and comfort.
During the same event, the Chief Minister also laid the foundation stone for a new medical college and hospital in Nabarangpur district. Spread over more than 50 acres, the institution will feature 100 MBBS seats and 420 beds, aiming to improve access to advanced healthcare facilities in the region.
Additionally, the government announced several development initiatives worth over ₹446 crore, including projects related to education, healthcare, roads, bridges, and social infrastructure, aimed at boosting overall district growth.