Hoshiarpur: Under the Punjab government's public welfare initiative—the 'Chief Minister's Pilgrimage Scheme' (Mukhyamantri Teerth Yatra Yojana)—a special bus filled with devotees departed from the town of Chabewal following a traditional *Ardas* (prayer ceremony). On this occasion, Dr. Ishank Kumar, the MLA for Chabewal, flagged off the bus, extending his best wishes to the devotees and praying for a pleasant, safe, and auspicious journey for them.
Speaking on the occasion, MLA Dr. Ishank Kumar stated that, through the 'Chief Minister's Pilgrimage Scheme,' the Punjab government is fulfilling the long-cherished desire of the elderly and devotees to visit sacred religious sites. He noted that there are many individuals who, due to financial or other constraints, are unable to undertake pilgrimages to major holy sites. For such people, this scheme is nothing short of a boon.
The MLA remarked, "I express my special gratitude to the Chief Minister of Punjab, Bhagwant Mann, who launched the 'Chief Minister's Pilgrimage Scheme' out of respect for the religious sentiments of the common people. Under this scheme, devotees are being provided with free travel, accommodation, and other essential amenities, thereby benefiting thousands of families."
He further added that the Punjab government is committed to the welfare of every section of society and is continuously working to provide better facilities to the people. Schemes such as this pilgrimage initiative are not only deeply connected to people's faith but also serve to strengthen social harmony and cultural values.
The devotees, too, expressed their gratitude to the Punjab government and Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, stating that this initiative by the government has provided them with the opportunity to visit sacred religious sites. They also conveyed their appreciation to MLA Dr. Ishank Kumar, who took a keen personal interest in organizing the pilgrimage.
As the bus departed, a distinct expression of enthusiasm and deep reverence was visible on the faces of the devotees.