Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to virtually inaugurate the Pravasi Bharatiya Express on January 8, 2025, from New Delhi’s Safdarjung railway station. This exclusive train service, designed for non-resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), will cater primarily to those between the ages of 45 and 65. The inaugural journey will begin on January 9, 2025, and holds special significance as it marks the anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India from South Africa in 1915.
Capacity and Amenities
The Pravasi Bharatiya Express will accommodate 156 passengers and is equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience. Participants will also stay in 4-star or similar category hotels, offering a high standard of comfort throughout their journey.
Destinations
Over three weeks, the train will travel to some of India’s most culturally and spiritually significant destinations, providing passengers with a deep dive into the country’s rich heritage. The itinerary includes visits to:
- Ayodhya
- Patna
- Gaya
- Varanasi
- Mahabalipuram
- Rameswaram
- Madurai
- Kochi
- Goa
- Ekta Nagar (Kevadia)
- Ajmer
- Pushkar
- Agra
Financial Assistance
To make this journey accessible, the Indian government will cover 90% of the return airfare for eligible participants, leaving them to pay only 10% of the cost. This initiative is part of the Pravasi Teerth Darshan Yojana, aiming to offer an affordable opportunity for NRIs and PIOs who may otherwise struggle with the expense of such a trip.
Context and Significance
The Pravasi Bharatiya Express launch coincides with the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) convention, being held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from January 8 to 10, 2025. The PBD convention is an important platform for engaging with the Indian diaspora, celebrating their contributions to India’s development, and strengthening their connection with their roots.
This initiative reflects India’s broader commitment to nurturing its ties with the global Indian community while promoting tourism and cultural exchange within the country.
- What are the key destinations the Pravasi Bharatiya Express will visit?
The train will visit significant cultural and religious sites such as Ayodhya, Patna, Varanasi, Mahabalipuram, and Agra, offering participants a profound spiritual and cultural experience. - How can NRIs apply for the Pravasi Bharatiya Express tour?
Details on the application process will likely be available through the official government portals or at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention. - What are the eligibility criteria for participating in the Pravasi Bharatiya Express tour?
The tour is specifically aimed at NRIs and PIOs, with a target age group of 45 to 65. Participants must meet certain financial and residency criteria to qualify for the subsidized airfare. - How will the expenses for the Pravasi Bharatiya Express tour be managed?
The Indian government will cover 90% of the return airfare under the Pravasi Teerth Darshan Yojana, with participants contributing the remaining 10%. - What cultural and spiritual experiences will passengers have on the Pravasi Bharatiya Express?
Passengers will have the opportunity to visit major cultural and religious sites, offering them a deep spiritual connection with India’s heritage. These destinations are known for their religious significance, historical importance, and cultural value, providing passengers with a holistic experience of India’s diverse legacy
