The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has granted in-principle approval to allow private tourism agencies to participate in its Hinduhridaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray – ST Sange Teerthatan pilgrimage scheme, a move aimed at expanding the programme while improving service delivery for pilgrims across the state.

The decision is expected to strengthen the scheme by bringing in private agencies to manage non-transport services, while MSRTC retains control over bus operations and passenger transportation. According to Transport Minister and MSRTC Chairman Pratap Sarnaik, the arrangement is intended to provide pilgrims with a more organised and integrated travel experience while generating an additional source of revenue for the state-run transport corporation.