The Odisha Baristha Nagarika Tirtha Yatra Yojana (BNTYY) is a wonderful scheme by the Odisha government that helps senior citizens visit holy places across India. Launched on 1st February 2016, this scheme is designed for people aged 60 to 75 years who want to fulfil their dream of going on a pilgrimage. The government works with the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) to make these trips safe, comfortable, and affordable. If you’ve applied for this scheme, you might be wondering how to check the status of your application or the beneficiary list.
What is the Baristha Nagarika Tirtha Yatra Yojana?
The BNTYY is a special programme for senior citizens of Odisha. It allows elderly people, especially those from poor or economically weaker backgrounds, to visit sacred places like Rameswaram, Haridwar, Tirupati, Varanasi, Shirdi, and Kamakhya. The government covers most of the costs, including travel, food, accommodation, and even a travel kit with essentials like a toothbrush, toothpaste, and a towel. The scheme is open to people of all religions and regions in Odisha, making it inclusive and fair.
Since its launch, over 37,555 senior citizens have gone on these pilgrimages, with 7,967 people travelling in 2024–25 alone. The Odisha government has continued this scheme for 2025–26, and registrations began on 17th July 2025, ending on 15th August 2025. If you or someone in your family has applied, checking the status of the application or the beneficiary list is important to know if you’ve been selected for the trip.
Why Check the Application Status or Beneficiary List?
Checking the status of your BNTYY application or the beneficiary list helps you know whether your application has been approved, rejected, or is still under review. Since the scheme gets many applications, a lottery system is used to select participants if there are more applicants than available spots. By checking the status or the beneficiary list, you can confirm your selection and plan your pilgrimage or follow up if there’s an issue with your application.
Also Read – Odisha Baristha Nagarika Tirtha Yatra Yojana 2025 – Know How to Apply Online.
How to Check the Status of Your BNTYY Application
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to check your application status:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to the official website of the Odisha Tourism Department at yatra.odisha.gov.in. This is the main portal for all BNTYY-related information.
- Find the Status Check Option: On the homepage, look for a section called “Check Application Status” or something similar. It might be under the “BNTYY” or “Pilgrimage Scheme” tab.
- Enter Your Details: You’ll need to provide details like your application number, name, or other identification details (like your Aadhaar number or mobile number). Make sure you have these details ready.
- Submit and View Status: After entering the required information, click “Submit.” The website will show whether your application is approved, pending, or rejected. If approved, you’ll also see details about your pilgrimage, like the date and destination.
- Contact the Helpline if Needed: If you face any issues or can’t find the status online, you can call the BNTYY helpline at 9692569555 for assistance.
Please note: The status check feature is currently unavailable on the portal. Kindly revisit after the application deadline for updates.
If you applied offline (by submitting a form at the District Collector’s office, Block office, or Gram Panchayat), you might need to visit the same office to check your status. They will have a list of selected candidates.
How to Check the Beneficiary List Using the Official URL
To check the beneficiary list for the Baristha Nagarika Tirtha Yatra Yojana, you can use the specific URL provided by the Odisha Tourism Department: https://dot.odisha.gov.in/node/176170. Here’s how you can do it:
- Open the URL: Type or paste https://dot.odisha.gov.in/node/176170 into your web browser and press “Enter.” This link takes you to a page related to the BNTYY scheme on the Department of Tourism website.
- Locate the Beneficiary List: On this page, look for a section or link titled “Beneficiary List,” “Selected Candidates,” or “BNTYY 2025–26 Beneficiaries.” It might be a downloadable PDF file or a searchable list.
- Search for Your Name: If the beneficiary list is a PDF, download it and open it on your device. Use the search function (Ctrl+F on a computer or the search icon on a mobile device) to find your name or application number. If it’s an online list, you may need to enter your application number or other details to check.
- Verify Details: If your name is on the list, note down important details like the pilgrimage date, destination, and any instructions provided.
- Contact for Clarification: If you can’t find the list or your name, contact the helpline at 9692569555 or visit your local District Collector’s office for assistance.
Note: The URL https://dot.odisha.gov.in/node/176170 may contain specific announcements or updates about the scheme. If the beneficiary list is not directly available on this page, check for links to related sections or announcements on the same website.
Who Can Apply for the Scheme?
To apply for the BNTYY, you need to meet these conditions:
- Age: You must be between 60 and 75 years old. If a married couple applies together, one spouse can be younger than 60.
- Residence: You must be a resident of Odisha.
- Economic Status: Priority is given to people from economically weaker sections. You need to submit documents like a ration card, pension certificate, or MGNREGS job card to prove your eligibility.
- Health: You should be medically fit to travel and free from serious diseases.
- One-Time Benefit: You can only avail of this scheme once in your lifetime.
If you’re over 70, you can bring an adult attendant, but they must pay 50% of the travel cost.
What Does the Scheme Offer?
The BNTYY makes the pilgrimage easy and comfortable. Here’s what you get:
- Travel: The government arranges transport from your district to the railway station and back.
- Accommodation: Comfortable stays are provided at pilgrimage sites.
- Food: Vegetarian meals (breakfast, lunch, tea, and dinner) and drinking water are provided during the journey.
- Travel Kit: You get a bag with essentials like a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, towel, blanket, and an identity card, all branded with the Odisha Tourism logo.
- Support: IRCTC provides tour guides, travel insurance, and medical assistance during the trip.
Important Information Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Baristha Nagarika Tirtha Yatra Yojana (BNTYY) |
| Launched On | 1st February 2016 |
| Managed By | Odisha Tourism Department and IRCTC |
| Eligibility | Senior citizens aged 60–75 years, residents of Odisha, all faiths |
| Application Period (2025–26) | 17th July 2025 to 15th August 2025 |
| Application Modes | Online at yatra.odisha.gov.in or offline at District/Block offices |
| Destinations | Rameswaram, Haridwar, Tirupati, Varanasi, Shirdi, Kamakhya, and more |
| Helpline Number | 9692569555 |
| Official Website | yatra.odisha.gov.in |
| Beneficiary List URL | dot.odisha.gov.in/node/176170 |
| Documents Needed | Aadhaar card, ration card, pension certificate, or MGNREGS job card, etc. |
| Selection Process | Lottery system if applications exceed the district quota |
Tips for a Smooth Application Process
- Apply Early: Submit your application as soon as possible to avoid last-minute issues.
- Double-Check Details: Make sure all the information in your form is correct, especially your name, age, and contact details.
- Keep Documents Ready: Have copies of your Aadhaar card, ration card, or other required documents handy.
- Check the Beneficiary List: Use the URL https://dot.odisha.gov.in/node/176170 to confirm if you’re selected.
- Follow Up: If you don’t see your status or name online, contact the helpline or visit the District Collector’s office.
- Stay Informed: Check the official website or local news for updates on the scheme, as dates or rules may change.
Why is the BNTYY Special?
This scheme is special because it helps senior citizens, especially those who can’t afford to travel, visit holy places. It shows the Odisha government’s care for its elderly citizens and respects their spiritual wishes. Whether you’re Hindu, Muslim, Christian, or from any other faith, the scheme welcomes everyone. It’s a chance to visit sacred places, make memories, and feel proud of being part of Odisha’s caring community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Who can apply for the Baristha Nagarika Tirtha Yatra Yojana?
Senior citizens aged 60 to 75 years who live in Odisha can apply. Married couples can apply together, and one spouse can be younger than 60. You need to be medically fit and provide proof of economic status, like a ration card. - How do I check my BNTYY application status?
Visit yatra.odisha.gov.in, find the “Check Application Status” option, and enter your application number or other details. You can also call the helpline at 9692569555 or visit your District Collector’s office. - How can I check the BNTYY beneficiary list?
Go to https://dot.odisha.gov.in/node/176170, look for the “Beneficiary List” or “Selected Candidates” link, and search for your name or application number in the list or PDF. Contact the helpline if you need help. - What documents are needed to apply for the scheme?
You need an Aadhaar card, ration card, pension certificate, or MGNREGS job card. You also need a medical fitness certificate and two passport-sized photos. - What happens if my application is not selected?
If your application is not selected in the lottery, you can apply again in the next year’s registration period, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.