The Mukhyamantri Tirth Yatra Yojna is a special initiative by the Delhi Government aimed at providing senior citizens with an opportunity to embark on religious pilgrimages free of cost. This scheme, which was approved by the Delhi Cabinet on January 9, 2018, ensures that elderly residents of Delhi can undertake these trips with their basic travel, food, and accommodation expenses fully covered by the government.
Benefits of the Scheme:
- Free Pilgrimages: The Delhi government covers all expenses related to travel, food, and accommodation for senior citizens.
- Attendant Support: For seniors who are unable to travel alone, one attendant (aged 21 or more) can accompany them, and the government will bear the attendant’s expenses as well.
- Additional Facilities: During the journey, facilities such as paramedical staff and attendants are available to ensure the comfort and safety of the senior citizens.
- Support for Elderly in Old Age Homes: The scheme also covers senior citizens residing in Delhi’s old age homes, ensuring they have access to this opportunity.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Residency: The applicant and their spouse must be residents of Delhi.
- Age: The applicant must be 60 years or older as of January 1st of the year in which the application is submitted.
- Employment Status: The applicant and their spouse should not be employed with the Central/State Government or local/autonomous bodies.
- Previous Availment: The applicant or spouse should not have previously availed of the scheme.
- Attendant: If the senior citizen opts for an attendant, the attendant must be over 21 years of age.
Application Process:
Online Registration:
- Step 1: Visit the official website of the e-District Portal at edistrict.delhigovt.nic.in.
- Step 2: On the homepage, click the “New User” link under the ‘Citizen’s Corner’ section to begin the registration process.
- Step 3: Complete the Mukhyamantri Tirth Yatra Yojna Online Registration Form by entering necessary details such as ID proof and other required documents.
- Step 4: Fill in accurate information and submit the registration form. Ensure that all details are correct to avoid issues with the application.
Facilitation Counters:
- SDM offices, Tirth Vikas Samiti offices, and MLA offices will also act as facilitation counters, where citizens can get help with their applications.
Documents Required:
- Application Form: Duly filled in the prescribed format along with a self-declaration.
- Medical Certificate: A self-attested copy of the medical certificate stating that the applicant/spouse is physically and mentally fit to undertake the journey.
- Delhi Voter ID: Self-attested copy of the Delhi Voter ID card for the applicant and spouse.
- MLA Certificate: A certificate from the local MLA confirming that the applicant resides within the legislator’s constituency, or a certificate from a Minister of GNCT of Delhi or the Chairman of the Tirth Yatra Vikas Samiti.
Additional Information:
- The scheme allows for 1,100 residents per assembly constituency to avail of the scheme annually, with a cap of 77,000 beneficiaries per year across Delhi.
- Since its launch, 38,000 senior citizens have benefited from the scheme, enabling them to travel to important religious destinations.
This initiative aims to ensure that senior citizens can experience spiritual and cultural journeys without financial burden, contributing to their overall well-being and happiness. With the online application process, it is now easier than ever for residents to apply and take part in this enriching experience.