The Maharashtra Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana 2025 is a transformative initiative by the Maharashtra government, designed to fulfill the spiritual aspirations of senior citizens who face financial barriers in undertaking pilgrimages. Launched under the leadership of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, this scheme aims to provide free pilgrimage opportunities to elderly residents of Maharashtra, enabling them to visit significant religious sites across the state and the country. This article delves into the details of the scheme, including its objectives, eligibility criteria, benefits, registration process, and recent updates, offering a comprehensive guide for potential beneficiaries.
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Overview of the Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana
Announced in June 2024, the Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana is a flagship program aimed at supporting senior citizens aged 60 and above who wish to visit sacred sites but are hindered by financial constraints. The scheme reflects the Maharashtra government’s commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that individuals from all religious backgrounds can participate. By covering travel, accommodation, and meal expenses, the initiative seeks to make pilgrimage accessible and hassle-free for elderly citizens, allowing them to fulfill their spiritual dreams in the later stages of life.
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| Maharashtra Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana |
The scheme is part of a broader effort to honor Maharashtra’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage, a state renowned as a land of saints and religious diversity. With 139 pilgrimage sites identified—73 across India and 66 within Maharashtra—the program offers a wide range of destinations, catering to various faiths, including Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Jainism, and Buddhism. Notable sites within Maharashtra include the Siddhivinayak Temple, Chaityabhoomi, and the Jain Temple in Nashik, while national destinations cover iconic locations like Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Tirupati.
Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana Highlights
| Aspect | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana 2025 |
| Launch Year | 2024, approved by Maharashtra Cabinet |
| Eligibility | Age 60+ (58+ for women), Maharashtra resident, income less than ₹2.5 lakh/year |
| Benefits | Free travel, accommodation, and meals; up to ₹30,000 per person |
| Pilgrimage Sites | 139 sites (66 in Maharashtra, 73 across India), covering all major religions |
| Application Process | Online (upcoming portal) or offline at Setu Suvidha Kendras/Tehsil offices |
| Special Provisions | Assistant available for 75+ age group, one-time benefit per person |
| Helpline | Dedicated helpline to be announced soon |
Objectives of the Scheme
The primary objective of the Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana is to provide financial and logistical support to senior citizens, enabling them to undertake pilgrimages without worrying about costs. Many elderly individuals dream of visiting sacred sites but are unable to do so due to limited income, lack of companionship, or inadequate information about travel arrangements. This scheme addresses these challenges by:
- Promoting Spiritual Fulfillment: Ensuring senior citizens can visit religious sites to seek blessings and achieve personal satisfaction.
- Enhancing Accessibility: Removing financial barriers by covering all major expenses, including travel, food, and accommodation.
- Fostering Inclusivity: Offering equal opportunities for individuals from all religious communities to participate.
- Improving Quality of Life: Empowering elderly citizens to pursue their spiritual goals, thereby enhancing their emotional and mental well-being.
The scheme also aligns with Maharashtra’s tradition of reverence for spiritual practices, making it a significant step toward social welfare and cultural preservation.
Eligibility Criteria for the Scheme
To ensure that the benefits reach those who need them most, the Maharashtra government has outlined specific eligibility criteria for the Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana. Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Residency: The applicant must be a permanent resident of Maharashtra.
- Age: Individuals aged 60 years or older are eligible. Women may receive a relaxation of 2 years in the age limit, making them eligible at 58.
- Income: The annual family income of the applicant should not exceed ₹2.5 lakh, targeting economically disadvantaged individuals.
- Physical and Mental Fitness: Applicants must be physically and mentally capable of undertaking the pilgrimage, except for those with disabilities, who may be eligible under special provisions.
- One-Time Benefit: The scheme’s benefits are available only once in a lifetime per individual for the designated pilgrimage sites.
- Other Criteria: Outsourced employees, voluntary workers, and contract workers with an income up to ₹2.5 lakh are also eligible. However, individuals who have previously availed of the scheme’s benefits or are income taxpayers are excluded.
These criteria ensure that the scheme prioritizes economically weaker senior citizens while maintaining fairness in the selection process.
Namo Shetkari Mahasanman Nidhi Yojana
Benefits of the Scheme
The Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana offers a range of benefits to make the pilgrimage experience seamless and enriching for senior citizens. Key benefits include:
- Free Pilgrimage: The government covers all expenses related to travel, accommodation, and meals, ensuring that beneficiaries do not incur any costs.
- Comprehensive Support: Beneficiaries receive assistance with transportation (via bus or train, depending on the distance to the pilgrimage site), lodging, and food, along with access to guides and travel insurance where applicable.
- Caretaker Facility: For individuals above 75 years of age, the scheme allows one assistant to accompany them, with details provided during application submission.
- Inclusivity Across Religions: The scheme is open to senior citizens of all faiths, with a diverse list of pilgrimage sites covering Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist holy places.
- Financial Assistance: The government has allocated up to ₹30,000 per person to cover pilgrimage-related expenses, ensuring a comfortable and well-organized journey.
- One-Time Opportunity: The scheme guarantees that eligible senior citizens can fulfill their pilgrimage dreams at least once in their lifetime.
These benefits aim to remove logistical and financial hurdles, allowing elderly citizens to focus on their spiritual journey.
List of Pilgrimage Sites
The Maharashtra government has curated a list of 139 pilgrimage sites to cater to the diverse religious fabric of the state. This includes 73 sites across India and 66 within Maharashtra. Some prominent sites include:
Within Maharashtra:
| Pilgrimage Site | District |
|---|---|
| Shri Siddhivinayak Temple | Mumbai |
| Mahalakshmi Temple | Mumbai |
| Chaityabhoomi Dadar | Mumbai |
| Mount Mary Church (Bandra) | Mumbai |
| Mumba Devi Temple | Mumbai |
| Shri Walkeshwar Temple | Malabar Hill, Mumbai |
| Vishwa Vipassana Pagoda | Gorai, Mumbai |
| Global Vipassana Pagoda | Mumbai |
| Church of Our Lady of Health | Cavell, Mumbai |
| St. Andrew’s Church | Mumbai |
| St. John the Baptist Church | Andheri, Mumbai |
| St. John the Baptist Church | Marol, Mumbai |
| Godiji Parshwanath Temple | Mumbai |
| Knesset Eliyahu Synagogue | Fort, Mumbai |
| Shaar Harhamim Synagogue | Mosque Floor, Mumbai |
| Magen David Synagogue | Byculla, Mumbai |
| St. John the Baptist Church | Thane |
| Agri (Fire) Temple | Thane |
| Shri Mayureshwar Ganapati Temple | Morgaon, Pune |
| Shri Chintamani Vinayak Temple | Theur, Pune |
| Girijatmaj Temple | Lenyadri, Pune |
| Mahaganpati Temple | Ranjangaon, Pune |
| Khandoba Temple | Jejuri, Pune |
| Sant Dnyaneshwar Samadhi Temple | Alandi, Pune |
| Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple | Khed Taluka, Pune |
| Sant Tukaram Maharaj Samadhi Temple | Dehu, Pune |
| Sant Chokha Mela Samadhi | Pandharpur, Solapur |
| Sant Savata Mali Samadhi Temple | Solapur |
| Shri Vitthal Rukmini Temple | Pandharpur, Solapur |
| Shikhar Shingnapur | Satara |
| Mahalakshmi Temple | Kolhapur |
| Jyotiba Temple | Kolhapur |
| Jain Temple | Kumbhoj, Kolhapur |
| Renuka Devi Temple | Mahur, Nanded |
| Guru Govind Singh Samadhi | Nanded |
| Khandoba Temple | Malegaon, Nanded |
| Shri Namdev Maharaj Devasthan | Umbraj, Nanded |
| Shri Tulja Bhavani Temple | Tuljapur, Dharashiv |
| Sant Eknath Maharaj’s Samadhi | Paithan, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar |
| Shri Ghrishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple | Verul, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar |
| Jain Monuments, Ellora Caves | Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar |
| Shri Vighnahar Temple | Ojar, Nashik |
| Sant Nivruttinath Samadhi | Trimbakeshwar, Nashik |
| Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple | Trimbakeshwar, Nashik |
| Muktidham Temple | Nashik |
| Saptashrungi Temple | Vani, Nashik |
| Shri Kalaram Temple | Nashik |
| Jain Temple | Mangi-Tungi, Nashik |
| Gajpantha | Nashik |
| Sai Baba Temple | Shirdi, Ahmednagar |
| Shri Siddhivinayak Temple | Siddhatek, Ahmednagar |
| Shani Temple | Shani Shingnapur, Ahmednagar |
| Shri Kshetra Bhagwangad | Pathardi, Ahmednagar |
| Ballaleshwar Temple | Pali, Raigad |
| Shri Gajanan Maharaj Temple | Shegaon, Buldhana |
| Ekvira Devi | Karla, Pune |
| Shri Dutt Temple | Audumbara, Sangli |
| Kedareshwar Temple | Beed |
| Vaijnath Jyotirlinga | Parli, Beed |
| Pavas | Ratnagiri |
| Ganapatipule | Ratnagiri |
| Marleshwar Temple | Ratnagiri |
| Mahakali Devi | Chandrapur |
| Shri Kaleshwari (Kalubai) Temple | Satara |
| Shri Ashtadashabhuj Temple | Ramtek, Nagpur |
| Shri Chintamani Ganesh Temple | Kalamb, Yavatmal |
| Deekshabhoomi | Nagpur |
Across India:
| Temple / Religious Site | District / Area |
|---|---|
| Shri Siddhivinayak Temple | Mumbai |
| Mahalakshmi Temple | Mumbai |
| Chaityabhoomi | Dadar, Mumbai |
| Mount Mary Church | Bandra, Mumbai |
| Mumba Devi Temple | Mumbai |
| Shri Walkeshwar Temple | Malabar Hill, Mumbai |
| Vishwa Vipassana Pagoda | Gorai, Mumbai |
| Global Vipassana Pagoda | Mumbai |
| Church of Our Lady of Health | Cavell, Mumbai |
| St. Andrew’s Church | Mumbai |
| St. John the Baptist Church | Andheri, Mumbai |
| St. John the Baptist Church | Marol, Mumbai |
| Godiji Parshwanath Temple | Mumbai |
| Knesset Eliyahu Synagogue | Fort, Mumbai |
| Shaar Harhamim Synagogue | Mumbai |
| Magen David Synagogue | Byculla, Mumbai |
| St. John the Baptist Church | Thane |
| Agri (Fire) Temple | Thane |
| Shri Mayureshwar Ganapati Temple | Morgaon, Pune |
| Shri Chintamani Vinayak Temple | Theur, Pune |
| Girijatmaj Temple | Lenyadri, Pune |
| Mahaganpati Temple | Ranjangaon, Pune |
| Khandoba Temple | Jejuri, Pune |
| Sant Dnyaneshwar Samadhi Temple | Alandi, Pune |
| Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple | Khed Taluka, Pune |
| Sant Tukaram Maharaj Samadhi Temple | Dehu, Pune |
| Sant Chokha Mela Samadhi | Pandharpur, Solapur |
| Sant Savata Mali Samadhi Temple | Solapur |
| Shri Vitthal Rukmini Temple | Pandharpur, Solapur |
| Shikhar Shingnapur | Satara |
| Mahalakshmi Temple | Kolhapur |
| Jyotiba Temple | Kolhapur |
| Jain Temple | Kumbhoj, Kolhapur |
| Renuka Devi Temple | Mahur, Nanded |
| Guru Govind Singh Samadhi | Nanded |
| Khandoba Temple | Malegaon, Nanded |
| Shri Namdev Maharaj Devasthan | Umbraj, Nanded |
| Shri Tulja Bhavani Temple | Tuljapur, Dharashiv |
| Sant Eknath Maharaj’s Samadhi | Paithan, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar |
| Shri Ghrishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple | Verul, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar |
| Jain Monuments | Ellora Caves, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar |
| Shri Vighnahar Temple | Ozar, Nashik |
| Sant Nivruttinath Samadhi | Trimbakeshwar, Nashik |
| Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple | Trimbakeshwar, Nashik |
| Muktidham Temple | Nashik |
| Saptashrungi Temple | Vani, Nashik |
| Shri Kalaram Temple | Nashik |
| Jain Temple | Mangi-Tungi, Nashik |
| Gajpantha | Nashik |
| Sai Baba Temple | Shirdi, Ahmednagar |
| Shri Siddhivinayak Temple | Siddhatek, Ahmednagar |
| Shani Temple | Shani Shingnapur, Ahmednagar |
| Shri Kshetra Bhagwangad | Pathardi, Ahmednagar |
| Ballaleshwar Temple | Pali, Raigad |
| Shri Gajanan Maharaj Temple | Shegaon, Buldhana |
| Ekvira Devi | Karla, Pune |
| Shri Dutt Temple | Audumbara, Sangli |
| Kedareshwar Temple | Beed |
| Vaijnath Jyotirlinga | Parli, Beed |
| Pavas | Ratnagiri |
| Ganapatipule | Ratnagiri |
| Marleshwar Temple | Ratnagiri |
| Mahakali Devi | Chandrapur |
| Shri Kaleshwari (Kalubai) Temple | Satara |
| Shri Ashtadashabhuj Temple | Ramtek, Nagpur |
| Shri Chintamani Ganesh Temple | Kalamb, Yavatmal |
| Deekshabhoomi | Nagpur |
The inclusion of sites from various religions underscores the scheme’s commitment to inclusivity and respect for Maharashtra’s pluralistic culture.
Required Documents
Applicants must provide the following documents during registration:
- Aadhaar Card
- Ration Card
- Income Certificate or proof of income (e.g., bank statements)
- Residence Proof (to confirm Maharashtra residency)
- Medical Certificate (to verify fitness for travel)
- Passport-size photographs
- Disability Certificate (if applicable)
- Caste Certificate (if applicable, for reserved categories)
- Mobile Number (for communication and updates)
The Social Justice and Special Assistance Department of Maharashtra oversees the scheme’s implementation, ensuring transparency and efficiency in the selection process. A 17-member committee, chaired by the Minister of Social Justice, monitors and reviews the scheme at the state level.
Registration Process
As of August 2025, the registration process for the Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana is still being finalized, with the government expected to release detailed guidelines soon. However, based on available information, the application process is likely to include both online and offline options to ensure accessibility. Below is an outline of the anticipated registration procedure:
Offline Registration:
- Obtain the Application Form: Forms may be available at Setu Suvidha Kendras, Tehsil offices, or District Collector (DC) offices.
- Fill the Form: Provide all required details, including personal information and pilgrimage preferences.
- Attach Documents: Submit photocopies of necessary documents along with the form.
- Submit to Authorities: Hand over the completed form to the designated officer at the Tehsil or DC office.
- Receive Confirmation: After verification, applicants will be informed of their selection and travel details.
Online Registration:
- Visit the Official Portal: Applicants should visit the official website designated for the scheme (to be announced by the government).
- Access the Registration Form: Click on the “Online Registration” or “Apply Now” link on the homepage.
- Fill in Details: Provide personal information such as name, age, address, Aadhaar number, income details, and preferred pilgrimage site.
- Upload Documents: Submit scanned copies of required documents (listed below).
- KYC Verification: Complete the KYC process, which may involve uploading a live photo or other verification steps.
- Submit Application: Review the entered details and submit the form. Applicants will receive a registration number via SMS or email for tracking purposes.
- Verification and Confirmation: After verification of documents and eligibility, successful applicants will receive a confirmation of their pilgrimage schedule.
Recent Updates (As of August 2025)
As of August 2025, the Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana is in the implementation phase, with the government having issued a Government Resolution (GR) on July 15, 2024, outlining the scheme’s rules and regulations. Key updates include:
- Official Notification: The scheme was formally approved by the state Cabinet in July 2024, with a detailed GR released to guide its execution.
- Pilgrimage Site List: The government has finalized a list of 139 pilgrimage sites, with specific mention of 15 religious locations in Mumbai, such as the Siddhivinayak Temple and Mount Mary Church.
- Application Process: While the online portal and detailed application process are yet to be launched, the government has indicated that applications will likely be accepted through both online and offline modes.
- Helpline Number: A dedicated helpline number is expected to be announced soon to assist applicants with queries and application support.
Beneficiaries are advised to stay updated through official government websites or local administrative offices for the latest announcements regarding the application process and travel schedules.
Challenges and Suggestions for Improvement
While the Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana is a commendable initiative, there are potential challenges that the government may need to address:
- Awareness: Many senior citizens, especially in rural areas, may lack awareness of the scheme or access to online registration platforms. The government could conduct awareness campaigns through local media, community centers, and religious institutions.
- Accessibility: The application process should be simplified to accommodate elderly applicants who may not be tech-savvy. Offline options and support at Setu Suvidha Kendras are crucial.
- Logistical Management: Coordinating travel, accommodation, and meals for a large number of pilgrims requires robust planning. Collaboration with agencies like IRCTC, as seen in similar schemes in Madhya Pradesh, could streamline operations.
- Inclusivity of Sites: While the current list of 139 sites is extensive, adding more regional or lesser-known pilgrimage sites could enhance inclusivity for smaller religious communities.
To improve the scheme, the government could consider:
- Developing a user-friendly online portal with multilingual support.
- Offering regular updates on application status via SMS or email.
- Providing training for liaison officers to ensure smooth coordination during pilgrimages.
- Expanding the scheme to allow annual pilgrimages for eligible applicants, as suggested in similar programs in other states.
Comparison with Similar Schemes
The Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana is not unique to Maharashtra, as other states like Madhya Pradesh and Haryana have implemented similar programs. For instance:
- Madhya Pradesh Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana: Launched in 2012, this scheme also targets senior citizens above 60, offering free travel, meals, and accommodation to sites like Kedarnath and Tirupati. It includes an online portal (dharmasva.mp.gov.in) and collaboration with IRCTC for train journeys.
- Haryana Mukhyamantri Teerth Yatra Yojana: This scheme provides free pilgrimage every three years for seniors above 60 with an annual income below ₹1.8 lakh. It includes sites like Ayodhya and Nanded Sahib.
Maharashtra’s scheme stands out for its extensive list of 139 pilgrimage sites and its emphasis on inclusivity across all religions, making it one of the most ambitious programs of its kind.
Conclusion
The Maharashtra Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana 2025 is a heartfelt initiative that empowers senior citizens to fulfill their spiritual aspirations without financial burdens. By covering all expenses and offering a diverse range of pilgrimage sites, the scheme reflects the state’s commitment to its elderly population and its rich cultural heritage. With clear eligibility criteria, comprehensive benefits, and a structured registration process, the program is poised to make a significant impact.
As the scheme rolls out, senior citizens are encouraged to stay informed about the application process through official channels and prepare the necessary documents to participate. By addressing potential challenges and incorporating feedback, the Maharashtra government can ensure that the Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana becomes a model for other states, fostering spiritual fulfillment and social welfare for years to come.
FAQs: Maharashtra Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana 2025
Q. What is the Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana 2025?
The Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana is a Maharashtra government initiative launched in 2024 to provide free pilgrimage opportunities to senior citizens aged 60 and above, covering travel, accommodation, and meals to 139 religious sites across India and Maharashtra.
Q. Who is eligible for the scheme?
Senior citizens aged 60 or above (58 for women), permanent residents of Maharashtra with an annual family income below ₹2.5 lakh, and physically/mentally fit for travel are eligible. The benefit is available once in a lifetime.
Q. What are the benefits of the scheme?
The scheme covers all pilgrimage expenses, including travel (bus/train), accommodation, meals, and guides. Up to ₹30,000 per person is allocated, and those above 75 can bring an assistant.
Q. Which pilgrimage sites are included?
The scheme includes 139 sites: 66 in Maharashtra (e.g., Siddhivinayak Temple, Chaityabhoomi) and 73 across India (e.g., Varanasi, Ayodhya, Amritsar), covering Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist sites.
Q. How can I apply for the scheme?
Applications will likely be accepted online via an official portal (to be announced) or offline at Setu Suvidha Kendras/Tehsil offices. Submit details and documents like Aadhaar, income certificate, and residence proof.
Q. What documents are required for registration?
Required documents include Aadhaar Card, Ration Card, income certificate, residence proof, medical certificate, passport-size photos, and optionally, disability or caste certificates.7.
Q. Can people from all religions participate?
Yes, the scheme is inclusive and open to senior citizens of all faiths, with pilgrimage sites representing Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Jainism, and Buddhism.8.
Q. Is there an age relaxation for women?
Yes, women can apply at the age of 58, while the general age requirement is 60 years.9.
Q. How will I know if my application is approved?
After verification, applicants will receive confirmation via SMS or email with details of their pilgrimage schedule. A registration number will be provided for tracking.10.
Q. Where can I get more information or assistance?
Stay updated through official government websites or contact Setu Suvidha Kendras. A dedicated helpline number is expected to be announced soon for support.
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