Sindhu Darshan Pilgrimage Scheme - Rajasthan

Description
The scheme "Sindhu Darshan Pilgrimage Scheme" was introduced by the Devasthan Department, Government of Rajasthan, on 1st April 2016. The objective of this scheme is to provide financial assistance to pilgrims undertaking a pilgrimage to the Sindhu River in the Ladakh region of India. Under this scheme, selected beneficiaries receive reimbursement of their travel expenses, up to a maximum of ₹10,000/- per pilgrim. Total Number of Beneficiaries The scheme is limited to 200 pilgrims per year. If there are more applicants than available slots, selection will be by lottery.

Benefits
• Reimbursement of 50% of actual travel expenses, up to a maximum of ₹10,000 per pilgrim.
• Payment is made via online bank transfer or through account payee cheque or demand draft, depending on departmental conditions.

Eligibility Criteria
1. The applicant should be a native of Rajasthan.
2. The applicant's age should be 21 years or above.
3. The applicant should not be a person who subsists on alms.
4. The applicant should not be an income tax payer.
5. The applicant should not be a retired employee/officer of the Central Government/State Government/Central & State Government Undertakings/Local Body.
6. Only one-time assistance per lifetime is permitted.
7. **Note:** Only the person selected by the Devasthan Department, Rajasthan is eligible to get the benefit of the scheme.

Required Documents
• Certified photocopy of Rajasthan Domicile Certificate
• Photocopy of Janadhaar Card (if available)
• Proof of actual travel expenses (tickets, bills, etc.)
• Verified certificate of travel from a recognized government department, registered trust, or constituted committee
• Photograph of the applicant at Snigdh Darshan Ghat, Sindhu River
• Photocopy of Inner Line Permit for Khanpurana Pass
• If the Janadhaar Card is issued by the Rajasthan Government, a separate domicile or birth certificate is not required.
• The department may consider a group/class photo at the Ghat in lieu of the Inner Line Permit.

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the maximum grant amount?
A: ₹10,000 per pilgrim, reimbursed at 50% of actual travel expenses.

Q: Who is eligible?
A: Rajasthan residents, aged 21+, not income tax payers or retired government employees.

Q: What is the total number of beneficiaries?
A: 200 pilgrims per year.

Q: How are beneficiaries selected?
A: Via computerized draw (lottery) if applicants exceed the quota.

Q: What is the pilgrimage destination?
A: Snigdh Darshan Ghat on the Sindhu River in Leh-Ladakh, J&K.

Q: When must the application be submitted?
A: Within 2 months of completing the journey, and before December 31, 2024.

Q: Is group/family application allowed?
A: Yes, but only up to 3 members per family are eligible.

Q: Can I get the grant more than once?
A: No, only once in a lifetime.

Q: Where do I submit the form?
A: At the office of the concerned Assistant Commissioner, Devasthan Department.

Q: Is the scheme open every year?
A: Yes, subject to annual notification and availability of slots.

Q: Is accommodation covered under the scheme?
A: No, only travel expenses are reimbursed.

Q: Who to contact for more information?
A: The Commissioner, Devasthan Department, Udaipur.