Mukhyamantri Teerth Yatra Yojana: CM Mann offers equal religious rights to all faiths

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has introduced the Mukhyamantri Teerth Yatra Yojana aimed at promoting harmony and brotherhood among all religions. It was introduced in 2024.

According to Mann, the initiative is in line with the teachings of Guru Sahib, who preached messages of peace and mutual respect. The scheme allows citizens over the age of 60 to visit religious places of their choice, with no restrictions on which sites they can choose.

Scheme promotes religious equality

The initiative reflects Punjab's rich tradition of brotherhood, love, and peace. It offers equal opportunities for followers of different religions to embark on pilgrimages. For example, Hindu devotees can visit sacred sites such as Mata Vaishno Devi, Mata Chintpurni, and Varanasi, while Muslims can visit holy places like Ajmer Sharif.

Sikh devotees are also included, with pilgrimage options to religious sites like Sri Hazur Sahib, Sri Patna Sahib, and Sri Anandpur Sahib. However, the unique feature of this scheme is its inclusivity—any devotee, regardless of their faith, can visit any religious place they choose.

Government aims to facilitate 50,000 pilgrims

The Mann government’s goal is to facilitate 50,000 pilgrims under the scheme. So far, 33,893 individuals have already visited religious places through the Chief Minister’s Pilgrimage Scheme, reflecting the scheme’s growing popularity.