Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary flagged off a special train carrying 1,100 pilgrims to Somnath Dham in Gujarat on Thursday. The state government will cover all expenses for the seven-day pilgrimage, which is part of a free pilgrimage scheme. The journey is scheduled to take place from July 20 to 26. Somnath Dham is one of the most revered Hindu temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located in the Prabhas Patan area of Gujarat, it is considered one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. The temple has a rich history and attracts millions of devotees each year. The Bihar government's initiative aims to make religious travel accessible to the underprivileged. The chief minister said that such schemes help promote spiritual tourism and provide an opportunity for the needy to visit holy sites. The pilgrims were given a warm send-off at the railway station. This is not the first such initiative by the state government. Similar free pilgrimages have been organized in the past to other religious destinations. The government bears the cost of transportation, accommodation, and meals for the entire duration of the trip. The special train departed from Patna Junction, and the pilgrims will return after completing their darshan at Somnath and other nearby temples. The initiative has been welcomed by religious leaders and local communities.