Kotkapura, July 18, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Punjab Assembly Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan on Friday flagged off the first bus from Kotkapura constituency under the Chief Minister Pilgrimage Scheme, carrying devotees to the holy destinations of Rishikesh and Haridwar.
The flag-off ceremony witnessed enthusiasm and religious fervour among the pilgrims.
Addressing the gathering, Sandhwan said visits to religious sites provide an opportunity to connect with Punjab’s rich religious and cultural heritage. He said the Chief Minister Pilgrimage Scheme was facilitating devotees in visiting various sacred religious destinations.
Referring to Rishikesh and Haridwar, the Speaker said the two places hold an important place in the country’s religious and spiritual heritage. A visit to such sacred destinations, he said, offers devotees an opportunity to experience peace and spiritual solace.
Sandhwan urged the pilgrims to maintain mutual brotherhood, discipline and harmony throughout the journey. He also extended his best wishes to them for a safe and pleasant pilgrimage.
The devotees said the facility being provided by the government for visits to religious destinations was highly beneficial, particularly for those who might otherwise face a significant financial burden in undertaking such journeys. They said the initiative was enabling them to visit the holy places without incurring substantial personal expenses.
Those present on the occasion included Neetu Kapoor Singla, State Secretary, Virasat Sewa Sangathan; Gurpreet Kaur Sandhwan; Ladi Dhuddi, Halqa In-charge, Virasat Sewa Sangathan; MC Mandeep Mauga; Sanjeev Kalra; MC Swaran Singh Virdi; Jaswinder Singh Dhuddi; besides other dignitaries, volunteers and a large number of devotees.































































































