Patna: The Bihar Tourism Department has initiated the application process for the Sindhu Darshan Pilgrimage Financial Assistance Grant Scheme-2026, under which eligible residents travelling to Leh-Ladakh can receive financial assistance covering 50% of eligible travel expenses, up to a maximum of Rs 20,000.
The scheme will be applicable from the 2026-27 financial year. Permanent residents of Bihar aged 18 years and above can apply, provided the journey is undertaken for religious or tourism purposes.
How Much Financial Assistance Is Available?
The grant will be calculated on the basis of eligible travel expenses incurred by the applicant.
For example, a person spending Rs 30,000 on eligible expenses can receive Rs 15,000, representing 50% of the expenditure. If the eligible expense is Rs 50,000 or more, the maximum assistance will be Rs 20,000.
Grant Available After Completion Of Journey
Applicants will have to complete the Sindhu Darshan Yatra before seeking financial assistance.
The application must be submitted within 60 days of completing the journey, along with documents and proofs related to the trip.
The Tourism Department will verify the submitted documents and the authenticity of the journey before releasing the grant to eligible applicants according to the scheme’s provisions.
Tickets, Permits And Receipts Must Be Preserved
Travellers will need to retain permits, tickets, payment receipts and other documents establishing their travel expenses.
Applicants will also be required to provide an identity document and proof of permanent residence in Bihar. The department may prescribe additional documents as part of the application process.
Travellers are therefore advised to preserve all relevant documents throughout the journey and until the grant application and verification process is complete.
Who Can Apply?
The scheme is open to permanent residents of Bihar who are 18 years of age or older.
The journey must have a religious or tourism-related purpose. Applicants must also meet the other conditions prescribed under the financial assistance scheme.
Scheme Aims To Promote Cultural And Religious Tourism
The Sindhu Darshan Yatra offers travellers an opportunity to visit the Indus River and experience the historical and cultural heritage of Ladakh.
The Bihar government has said the initiative is intended to strengthen people’s connection with India’s religious, spiritual, historical and cultural heritage while promoting tourism.
Tourism minister Kedar Prasad Gupta said the Sindhu Darshan Yatra provides an important avenue for connecting people from Bihar with the country’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
Under the scheme, government assistance will cover part of the eligible travel expenditure, potentially reducing the cost for pilgrims and tourists travelling to Ladakh.
