What this scheme offers
Under Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana, notified by a Government Resolution of 19 June 2024, Maharashtra pays for senior citizens of every religion to visit a pilgrimage site once in their lifetime, spending up to ₹30,000 per person on travel, food, accommodation and medical help. The state first identified 139 sites — 73 across India and 66 in Maharashtra — and the department's current list is longer. Trains are booked through IRCTC and buses through authorised tour companies. A person aged 75 or above can take a spouse or one assistant. The scheme runs district by district: for example Mumbai Suburban took applications until 15 May 2026 for a Bodh Gaya yatra, and Wardha had sent 1,023 seniors on three yatras by September 2026.
Who is eligible
- Permanent resident of Maharashtra aged 60 or above, of any religion.
- Annual family income up to ₹2.5 lakh, shown by an income certificate or a yellow or saffron ration card.
- Physically and mentally fit to travel, with a medical certificate.
- The benefit is available once in a lifetime for one of the designated sites.
- An applicant aged 75 or above may take a spouse or one assistant.
Documents required
- Aadhaar card or ration card
- Proof of residence in Maharashtra — ration card, Aadhaar-linked school record or birth certificate
- Income certificate up to ₹2.5 lakh, or a yellow / saffron ration card
- Medical fitness certificate
- Two passport-size photographs
- Undertaking to follow the terms and code of conduct
How to apply
- Wait for your district's Social Welfare office to announce the next yatra and its application window.
- Apply online through the scheme portal or mobile app, or through a Setu Suvidha Kendra, with your mobile number for registration.
- Upload the documents and choose from the designated pilgrimage sites on offer in that round.
- A provisional list of eligible applicants is published on the portal or app, and the final beneficiaries are selected district-wise.
- Selected pilgrims are told the date and departure point; travel, food and stay are provided free.