In a sincere effort to strengthen the spiritual bond of Chhattisgarh’s citizens, the state government’s Shri Ramlala Darshan Yojana has achieved a significant landmark. Over 22,000 pilgrims have so far arrived in the sacred city of Ayodhya under this scheme. The March 2024-launched scheme was intended to transport 20,000 pilgrims. But due to increasing public demand and official interest, that target has been crossed now.
The most recent train carrying 850 devotees departed from Raipur on Tuesday, continuing the spiritual momentum. In addition to wishing the passengers a safe and fortunate journey, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai described this initiative as a living manifestation of Chhattisgarh’s deeply ingrained cultural values.
₹36 Crore Budget Approved for FY 2025–26
Keeping the momentum strong, CM Sai announced that ₹36 crore has been approved for the scheme in the financial year 2025–26. Over the last 18 months, 27 dedicated trains have departed from multiple zones throughout the state to transport devotees to Ayodhya Dham.
This initiative is not just about religious tourism. According to the Chief Minister, it’s a step toward empowering Chhattisgarh’s cultural identity. The focus is also on making sure elderly citizens and those from weaker sections get to witness the birthplace of Lord Ram at least once in their lifetime.
A Vision Turned Reality: Free Pilgrimage for All
Residents of Chhattisgarh can travel for free during the Shri Ram Darshan Yatra. In collaboration with IRCTC, the government handles all aspects of travel, lodging, and food. IRCTC and the Chhattisgarh Tourism Board signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 23rd February, 2024 The first official train left Raipur on March 5, 2024. Since then, there has been a weekly train from Bilaspur, Sarguja, Durg, and Bastar.
There is also a pilgrimage to Ayodhya apart from pilgrims taking note of the spiritual vibe of Kashi Vishwanath Dham, which adds to the experience.
Devotees Given Warm Send-Off Amid Chants at Raipur Railway Station
The recent flight from Raipur was a moving and colorful sight. The words “Jai Shri Ram” were shouted by platform number 7 when a dozen Yatris alighted upon the train. Classical Chhattisgarhi dance and music from street artists greeted them, and IRCTC employees greeted every passenger with a tilak.
The train was flagged off by Revenue and Youth Welfare Minister Tankram Verma at 1 PM in the presence of a galaxy of other high-ranking dignitaries such as MLAs Purandar Mishra, Motilal Sahu, Guru Khushwant Sahib, tourism and cultural board leaders.
A People’s Movement Rooted in Faith
According to Chief Minister Sai, the plan is a spiritual endeavor that demonstrates the people’s strong bond with Lord Ram. He also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, saying the plan is consistent with the PM’s promise to ensure that all citizens have access to the Ram Lalla temple.
The plan is now firmly identified with the people of Chhattisgarh. It’s no longer a government plan, it’s a people’s movement conceived out of trust, pride, and custom.
What’s Next?
Special trains will still be running on a weekly basis from every division of the state. With growing interest, the government intends to further expand the scheme in the coming months. The emphasis would still be on covering senior citizens and marginalized communities in such a way that none would be left behind in this spiritual trip.
Through this initiative, Chhattisgarh is not merely shipping pilgrims to Ayodhya – it’s uniting religion, culture, and society, train by train.