Baristha Nagarika Tirtha Yatra Yojana Odisha 2026-27: Eligibility, Selection List & Next Round
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Odisha Tirtha Yatra 2026-27
Are you looking for the Odisha Baristha Nagarika Tirtha Yatra 2026-27 application form, selection list or next application date? The Odisha government’s pilgrimage scheme helps eligible senior citizens from economically weaker families visit religious destinations with government support.
The application window for the 2026-27 round ran from 15 July to 14 August 2026. These dates have passed, and a new application schedule for 2027-28 should not be assumed until the Tourism Department announces it.
This guide explains who can qualify, which documents to prepare, how the selection process works, where to check your application, what travel facilities are provided and how to prepare for the next round.
Baristha Nagarika Tirtha Yatra Yojana 2026-27: Overview
| Scheme detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Official name | Baristha Nagarika Tirtha Yatra Yojana (BNTYY) |
| State | Odisha |
| Implementing department | Department of Tourism, Government of Odisha |
| Travel partner | IRCTC, as specified in the scheme guidelines |
| Main objective | To help eligible senior citizens undertake pilgrimages |
| General age requirement | Over 60 and within 75 years |
| Residence requirement | Odisha domicile |
| Application dates for 2026-27 | 15 July to 14 August 2026 |
| Current application status | 2026-27 application window closed |
| Selection process | District-level scrutiny and selection under the guidelines |
| Official scheme page | Odisha Tourism BNTYY page |
| Online portal | yatra.odisha.gov.in |
Important: The dates of the next application round, new eligibility instructions and travel schedule should be checked against the latest official notification.
What Is Baristha Nagarika Tirtha Yatra Yojana?
Baristha Nagarika Tirtha Yatra Yojana is a pilgrimage assistance scheme of the Government of Odisha. It is intended to help eligible senior citizens from poor and deprived families visit religious destinations without having to arrange the entire travel package themselves.
The scheme was introduced in 2016 in collaboration with IRCTC. Depending on the approved itinerary and applicable guidelines, the package can include train travel, accommodation, vegetarian meals, road transport, sightseeing, tour escorts, medical assistance and travel insurance.
The scheme is intended for people of different religions and communities. Selection is subject to the eligibility conditions, district-wise allocation and the prescribed selection procedure.
Read the official BNTYY guidelines and application forms (dot.odisha.gov.in/en/baristha-nagarika-tirtha-yatra-yojana-bntyy) before applying.
Is the BNTYY Application Form Open for 2026-27?
No. The announced application period for the 2026-27 round was 15 July to 14 August 2026.
As of 25 October 2026, the next round’s application dates have not been established in this guide. Applicants should not rely on unofficial websites or social media posts claiming that registration has reopened unless an official notification confirms it.
If you missed the deadline, you can still prepare your documents, review the eligibility requirements and monitor the official Tourism Department website for the next announcement.
Who Is Eligible for the Odisha Senior Citizen Pilgrimage Scheme?
The scheme has specific eligibility requirements. Meeting the age requirement alone does not guarantee selection.
1. Age requirement
An individual applicant generally must be over 60 years of age and within the prescribed upper age limit of 75 years. The guidelines use the final date of application submission to calculate age.
A married couple may submit a joint application even when one spouse is below 60, subject to the applicable guidelines.
2. Odisha domicile
The applicant must be a domicile of Odisha. Keep valid identity and address documents ready to support the application.
3. Economic status
The scheme is intended for poor and deprived sections of society. The revised guidelines list documents such as:
- Antyodaya or Annapurna card
- NFSA ration card
- Old-age pension or widow pension documentation
- MGNREGS job card
- Other acceptable Odisha government documents establishing economic disadvantage, where permitted by the guidelines
Check the latest form for the exact accepted proof. Do not assume that an ordinary identity card by itself establishes economic eligibility.
4. Medical fitness
Applicants must be fit enough to undertake the journey and must comply with the scheme’s medical-fitness requirements. The application form includes an undertaking concerning fitness and communicable diseases.
Anyone with a health concern should consult their doctor before committing to a multi-day journey.
5. One pilgrimage per lifetime
The scheme generally allows a beneficiary to use the pilgrimage benefit only once in their lifetime. Previous participation should be disclosed accurately.
6. Married couples
Eligible spouses can apply jointly. A joint application is treated as one application for selection purposes, while the facilities are provided individually.
7. Attendant facility
A pilgrim aged 70 to 75 may be accompanied by an eligible attendant who is over 18 years old, subject to the scheme’s rules. The attendant must apply jointly with the pilgrim and pay 50% of the prescribed travel cost under the applicable guidelines.
The current payment method and amount should be confirmed before submitting an application.
Documents Required for BNTYY Application
Preparing the documents before registration can help avoid mistakes and delays.
Keep the following documents ready, subject to the requirements of the current application form:
- Aadhaar card or other prescribed identity proof
- Proof of age and address
- Odisha domicile or other accepted residence documentation
- Accepted economic-status proof, such as a ration card, pension document or MGNREGS job card
- Recent passport-size photographs
- Blood group details
- Emergency contact details of a relative
- Medical-fitness undertaking or other prescribed medical documentation
- Spouse’s documents for a joint application
- Attendant’s identity, age and other required documents, if applicable
- Bank draft or payment evidence for an attendant, where required under the current rules
Before submission, check that names, dates of birth and addresses match across the documents. Make sure every required field is completed and keep a copy of the submitted form and registration receipt.
For help obtaining a ration card copy, see our guide to downloading an Odisha ration card online.
How to Apply for Baristha Nagarika Tirtha Yatra Yojana
The 2026-27 registration period is over. The following instructions explain the process described for that round and can help applicants prepare for a future round. The portal interface or requirements may change.
Online application process
- Open the official BNTYY pilgrimage portal.
- Look for the relevant pilgrimage scheme and the available registration option.
- Register using the requested mobile number and complete any OTP verification.
- Select the appropriate applicant category, such as individual or couple, if offered.
- Enter personal details, address, age and other requested information.
- Choose the relevant district and provide the details required by the portal.
- Upload the photograph and supporting documents in the prescribed format.
- Enter attendant information if applicable and follow the instructions for any required payment.
- Review all information carefully before submitting the application.
- Save the registration number or acknowledgement for future reference.
These steps are a practical summary rather than a guarantee that every screen will remain identical in the next round. Follow the live portal instructions when registration reopens.
Offline application process
Applicants who need an offline form can check the official Tourism Department page for the English and Odia application forms.
The prescribed form may be available through the relevant Collectorate, District Tourist Office or other offices designated by the district administration.
Complete the form, attach all required documents and submit it to the designated authority within the notified deadline. The guidelines provide for applications through the prescribed offline procedure, including submission by post where permitted.
Official resources:
- Download forms and view scheme information (dot.odisha.gov.in/en/baristha-nagarika-tirtha-yatra-yojana-bntyy)
- English application form PDF (dot.odisha.gov.in/sites/default/files/2023-10/BNTYY%20-%20English%20Application%20Form.pdf)
Incomplete applications, missing documents or applications received after the applicable deadline may be rejected.
How Does the BNTYY Selection Process Work?
Submitting an application does not automatically guarantee a place on the pilgrimage.
Under the scheme guidelines, the selection process involves district-level scrutiny and the allocation of seats according to the approved district quota.
The broad process is as follows:
- Applications are received and checked for completeness and eligibility.
- Eligible applications are processed through the district administration.
- The District Level Selection Committee, headed by the Collector, oversees selection under the applicable rules.
- Where eligible applications exceed the available quota, the prescribed lottery or other selection method in the guidelines is used.
- A waiting list may be prepared to fill vacancies if selected applicants withdraw or cannot travel.
- The selected and waiting lists are communicated or published through the prescribed district-level channels.
The exact quota and selection arrangements can vary by round. Applicants should refer to the applicable guidelines rather than assume that every district will have the same number of seats.
How to Check the Baristha Nagarika Tirtha Yatra Selection List
If you applied during the 2026-27 round, use the following steps to find out whether your name has been selected.
Method 1: Check with your District Tourist Office
Contact or visit your District Tourist Office or Collectorate and ask about the BNTYY selected list and waiting list for your district.
Keep your application registration number and acknowledgement available. Ask the office whether the list has been finalised and how you can confirm your status.
Method 2: Check district notices
The scheme guidelines provide for district-level publication of selected names. Check notices at the relevant district headquarters, Tourist Office or block office.
If a notice is available online, confirm that it is hosted by an official government website and relates to the correct year.
Method 3: Visit the official portal
Open yatra.odisha.gov.in and look for the relevant login, application or status option.
Use the registration details requested by the portal. If you cannot find a status-check feature or your application does not appear, contact the district office rather than relying on an unofficial status website.
Method 4: Contact the Tourism Department
The original application form lists the Tourism Department phone number as 0674-2432177. You can try this number to ask for guidance, but verify the current contact details on the official department website before relying on them.
Note: A single statewide PDF containing every district’s final selection list has not been established here. Availability and publication format may differ between districts.
What Happens If Your Name Is on the Waiting List?
A waiting-list position does not mean that travel is guaranteed. A vacancy may arise if a selected applicant withdraws or cannot participate.
Contact the District Tourist Office to ask whether your application is on the waiting list, whether the list has moved and whether any further action is required from you.
Do not pay an agent to improve your position. Selection must follow the official procedure.
If you are selected, follow the instructions in your selection notice, including any reporting time, boarding arrangements, identity checks or other requirements.
Which Places Are Covered Under the 2026-27 Yatra?
The reported 2026-27 plan includes destinations such as:
- Ayodhya
- Varanasi
- Haridwar
- Rishikesh
- Rameswaram
- Madurai
These destinations should be treated as the reported plan, not as a guarantee that every pilgrim will visit every location.
The actual itinerary depends on the approved trip schedule and the train or travel group assigned to the applicant’s district. Confirm your destinations and dates through the official notice or travel instructions.
How long does the journey take?
Recent journeys described in the available reporting have been around six days. However, the duration and boarding arrangements may vary by itinerary.
Wait for your official travel instructions before booking any connecting travel independently.
What Facilities Are Provided Under the Scheme?
The scheme guidelines describe a package of pilgrimage services arranged through the designated agencies. The exact facilities depend on the applicable operational arrangements.
| Facility | What to know |
|---|---|
| Train journey | Chartered train travel under the approved itinerary |
| Meals | Vegetarian meals, tea, snacks and drinking water as specified |
| Accommodation | Accommodation arranged for the journey |
| Road transport | Transport for scheduled sightseeing |
| Tour assistance | Tour managers, escorts and guides as provided |
| Medical support | Medical assistance and physicians under the package |
| Travel insurance | Insurance as specified in the scheme arrangements |
| Travel kit | Items provided under the applicable package |
| District transport | Arrangements between home areas and the starting station, as specified |
Additional activities, shopping, personal expenses and facilities outside the approved package may not be covered.
Do not assume that every activity, ticket or optional attraction is free. Check the itinerary and the terms communicated for your particular journey.
Rules for Selected Pilgrims
Selected applicants should follow the instructions issued by the Tourism Department and district administration.
- Keep the selection notice and identity documents safe.
- Follow the official reporting time and boarding instructions.
- Remain with the assigned group during travel and sightseeing.
- Follow instructions from the tour manager, escorts and IRCTC staff.
- Carry regular medicines and relevant prescriptions.
- Keep emergency contact details with you.
- Avoid carrying unnecessary valuables.
- If you cannot travel, notify the designated authority as early as possible and follow the official withdrawal procedure.
The revised guidelines contain rules concerning withdrawal, advance notice and possible consequences. Check the applicable notice for the exact deadline and any financial consequences before cancelling.
What to Pack for the Pilgrimage
A little preparation can make a multi-day trip more comfortable, particularly for older travellers.
Consider carrying:
- Regular medicines and prescriptions
- A photocopy of your identity documents
- Your registration receipt and selection notice
- Comfortable walking footwear
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- A small bag for essential personal items
- A written emergency contact number
- Any medical information that a tour escort may need in an emergency
These are practical suggestions, not a substitute for the official packing instructions. Ask the district office or tour organiser whether any additional items are required.
Missed the 2026-27 Application Deadline? What to Do Next
If you did not apply before 14 August 2026, the next step is to prepare for a future round. No confirmed 2027-28 application date is provided here.
You can use this time to:
- Check your age and Odisha residence documents.
- Arrange the economic-status proof required by the guidelines.
- Ensure that your photographs and identity documents are current and legible.
- Collect the relevant medical and emergency contact information.
- Bookmark the official BNTYY page and pilgrimage portal.
- Monitor new notices for the application dates, district quota, destinations and updated rules.
Do not submit money or personal documents to an unofficial website claiming to offer early registration.
Families can also review other relevant welfare schemes. For example, eligible women may want to read our Subhadra Yojana guide, while eligible widows may find our Habishyali Yojana guide useful.
How to Avoid BNTYY Application Scams
Be cautious if an individual or website promises guaranteed selection, priority treatment or a confirmed seat in exchange for money.
Before making a payment:
- Verify the information on the official Tourism Department website.
- Use only the application channels and payment methods specified in the official instructions.
- Do not share OTPs or account passwords with agents.
- Keep receipts for any payment that the scheme expressly requires.
- Report suspicious requests to the relevant district or Tourism Department office.
The attendant’s prescribed travel contribution is different from paying an agent to secure selection. No one should be able to sell you a guaranteed place outside the official process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Baristha Nagarika Tirtha Yatra 2026-27 application open?
No. The announced application window was 15 July to 14 August 2026. Check the official Tourism Department website for any later notification.
When will the next BNTYY application form be released?
The next round’s date has not been confirmed in this guide. Follow the official scheme page and pilgrimage portal for the announcement.
Who can apply for Baristha Nagarika Tirtha Yatra Yojana?
Eligible Odisha domiciles who meet the prescribed age, economic-status and medical-fitness requirements can apply. Final selection depends on the scheme rules and available district quota.
How can I check my BNTYY selection status?
Check the official portal for an available application-status facility or contact your District Tourist Office or Collectorate with your registration number.
Is there an application fee?
The guidelines do not describe a general application fee for ordinary eligible pilgrims. An attendant accompanying a qualifying pilgrim is subject to the prescribed 50% travel-cost contribution. Confirm all current payment instructions in the official notification.
Can a person under 60 apply with their spouse?
A married couple may submit a joint application even if one spouse is below 60, subject to the applicable scheme conditions.
Can children accompany a senior citizen?
The attendant provision applies to an eligible attendant over 18 accompanying a pilgrim aged 70 to 75, subject to the guidelines. Other family members should not assume they can join the trip as ordinary companions.
Can someone who travelled under the scheme apply again?
The scheme generally permits a pilgrim to benefit only once in a lifetime.
Which documents prove economic eligibility?
Accepted documents listed in the guidelines include Antyodaya or Annapurna cards, NFSA ration cards, old-age or widow pension documents, MGNREGS job cards and other permitted government documents showing economic disadvantage.
Is the pilgrimage completely free?
The package provides specified facilities to selected pilgrims under the scheme. Optional activities, personal spending and the attendant’s prescribed contribution may not be covered.
How can I get the official BNTYY application form?
Visit the Odisha Tourism Department’s BNTYY page (dot.odisha.gov.in/en/baristha-nagarika-tirtha-yatra-yojana-bntyy), where the department lists the scheme guidelines and English and Odia forms.
Disclaimer
This is an independent informational guide and is not affiliated with the Government of Odisha. Scheme dates, eligibility conditions, travel arrangements and selection procedures may change. Always follow the latest official notification and instructions from the Tourism Department or your district administration.
