Jeypore:Dec, 23: Under the Senior Citizens’ Pilgrimage Scheme, 168 senior citizens from Koraput district have begun their pilgrimage journey. The pilgrims travelled from Koraput to Rayagada by four buses, and from Rayagada they are scheduled to proceed by train on Monday to Madurai and Rameswaram.
District Collector Manoj Satyawan Mahajan flagged off the buses, marking the formal commencement of the journey. A total of 168 senior citizens from 14 blocks and 4 municipalities of the district are participating in this pilgrimage.
On Sunday morning, health check-ups of all the pilgrims were conducted, and necessary emergency medicines were provided to them. Additional District Magistrate Tapan Kumar Nayak was present on the occasion, where he encouraged the pilgrims and extended his best wishes for a safe and pleasant journey.
The Additional District Magistrate informed that the pilgrims are expected to return on the 20th after completing their pilgrimage. For the safety and convenience of the 168 senior pilgrims, six officers have been deputed by the administration to make necessary arrangements and provide assistance throughout the journey.
The senior citizen pilgrims have appreciated the government for organising such a welfare-oriented programme.