Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi
New Delhi, Jan 9: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday virtually launched the inaugural journey of the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a state-of-the-art tourist train designed exclusively for the Indian diaspora.
This initiative, part of the Pravasi Teertha Darshan Yojana of the Ministry of External Affairs, aims to offer a unique experience of exploring India's rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
The Pravasi Bharatiya Express, meticulously curated for Indians aged between 45 and 65 years, will travel to a variety of tourism and religious destinations across the country over a three-week period.
The selection of January 9, as the launch date holds special significance, marking the day Mahatma Gandhi returned to India from South Africa in 1915.
The journey begins from Safdarjung Railway Station, New Delhi, covering a comprehensive route: New Delhi - Ayodhya - Patna - Gaya - Varanasi - Mahabalipuram - Rameswaram - Madurai - Kochi - Goa - Ekta Nagar (Kevadia) - Ajmer - Pushkar - Agra. The train can accommodate 156 passengers, offering an immersive experience while connecting them to their roots.
This remarkable endeavor, organized in collaboration with the Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), aims to foster deeper connections with India’s rich heritage and provide a hassle-free travel experience for Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) from around the globe.
The Ministry of External Affairs will cover all expenses for this guided tour, including 90% of return airfares, while participants will only need to bear 10% of their return airfare.
Travelers will be accommodated in 4-star or similar category hotels, ensuring a comfortable and enriching journey.
This initiative is set to create lasting memories and strengthen ties between the Indian diaspora and their homeland.