Punjab reports 510,000 pilgrims aided by travel scheme amid BJP anti-drug campaign

The Punjab government’s Mukh Mantri Tirath Yatra Scheme has facilitated 510,807 pilgrims in visiting religious destinations both within and outside the state. Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond reported that the program provides free AC sleeper bus travel, food, and accommodation for residents aged 50 and above. The scheme, which launched in November 2025, was expanded in August 2026 to include destinations such as Haridwar-Rishikesh and Mathura-Vrindavan.

In contrast, political opposition leaders are highlighting a growing drug crisis in the region. BJP leaders, including Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, have launched the ‘Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatra’ to campaign against substance abuse. During the statewide initiative, Gupta accused the Aam Aadmi Party administration of failing to meet promises to eliminate drugs from the state, while Chouhan called on citizens to join a ‘decisive battle’ to make Punjab drug-free.