Dhuri (Sangrur), November 10, 2025 — Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Tuesday inaugurated the state’s pilgrimage program for senior citizens, sending the first batch of buses to Amritsar to visit prominent religious and historical sites.
Addressing the assembled devotees, Mann highlighted the spiritual significance of the trip, which marks the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. “This scheme is an effort to fulfill the heartfelt wishes of our elderly citizens who have longed to visit these sacred places,” he said.
The pilgrimage program, initiated on October 29 from Bardhwal village, relies on a transparent selection process through a lottery. The Chief Minister stressed that the initiative is inclusive, designed for participants across all religions, castes, and economic backgrounds.
Under the scheme, devotees will visit Sri Harmandir Sahib, Durgiana Temple, Bhagwan Valmiki pilgrimage site, Jallianwala Bagh, the Partition Museum, and other key locations in Amritsar. Mann said the state government has arranged AC bus transport, hotel accommodation for three days and two nights, and meals at no cost.
Each convoy will include bus assistants to aid passengers and medical teams for immediate care. “Prasad will be distributed to all devotees after the journey,” Mann mentioned, underscoring the spiritual aspects of the program.
Referring to Punjab’s heritage, Mann said, “This is the land of Gurus, saints, gods, and martyrs who have taught us the values of sharing, brotherhood, and unity. I feel fortunate that I can serve the people through this initiative.”
He added that the scheme aligns with the teachings of Guru Sahibs, promoting peace and harmony. Mann urged participants to take part in ongoing religious programs and anniversary celebrations at Sri Anandpur Sahib. “Through this program, devotees who were previously unable to undertake pilgrimages now have an opportunity to connect with their spiritual roots,” he said.
