Rajasthan Government's Initiative for SC Community

• 26 Jul 2025

Why in News? 

The Rajasthan government has launched a scheme to offer free rail travel to five historical sites linked to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar for Scheduled Caste (SC) residents of Rajasthan, inspired by the 'Senior Citizen Pilgrimage Scheme.' 

Key Points 

• About: This initiative aims to honor Dr. Ambedkar's legacy by facilitating visits to historical sites linked to his life and work. 
• Sites Covered Related to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar: 
  • Ambedkar’s Birthplace (Mhow, Madhya Pradesh): Bhim Janmabhoomi, a memorial inaugurated on Ambedkar’s 100th birth anniversary, attracts millions of visitors annually, especially on Ambedkar Jayanti (14 April), serving as a hub for social equality and remembrance. 
  • Deeksha Bhoomi (Nagpur, Maharashtra): This site marks Dr. Ambedkar’s conversion to Buddhism on 14 October 1956, with over 400,000 followers. It features one of Asia’s largest stupas and hosts the Dhammachakra Pravartan Din celebration, drawing millions of attendees each year. 
  • Mahaparinirvana Bhoomi (Delhi/Alipur Road): The place where Dr. Ambedkar attained “Mahaparinirvana” on 6 December 1956. The memorial, designed to resemble the Indian Constitution, combines modern and Buddhist architectural elements, symbolizing his legacy. 
  • Chaitya Bhoomi (Mumbai, Maharashtra): Dr. Ambedkar’s cremation site, a symbol of hope and unity for marginalized communities. It serves as a central gathering point for Ambedkarite and Neo-Buddhist movements. 
  • Indu Mill Memorial (Mumbai): The former Indu Mill site in Dadar is being developed into a grand memorial, featuring a 350ft bronze statue and Buddhist-inspired architecture, symbolizing Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy and providing an educational landmark. 
• Scheme Benefits: All expenses related to travel, accommodation, and food will be borne by the state government. 
• Application Process: Applicants will undergo a review process conducted by a district-level committee. 
• Selection Process: If applicants exceed available slots, selection will be made via a computerized lottery or another transparent method, with results published on the official departmental website and information portal. 
• Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must be Rajasthan residents from the SC community, non-income taxpayers, hold a Jan Aadhar card, and not suffer from contagious diseases (e.g., COVID-19, TB).