Warkaris participate in the palanquin procession of Sant Nath Maharaj on its journey to Pandharpur from Trimbakeshwar, in Nashik, Thursday, June 12, 2025.
| Photo Credit: PTI
The Maharashtra government on Tuesday (July 1, 2025) announced that it will provide ex-gratia assistance of ₹4 lakh to the next of kin of warkaris (devotees of Lord Vitthal) in the event of accidental death during the annual Ashadhi Wari pilgrimage to Pandharpur.
The announcement was made through a Government Resolution (GR) issued by the Revenue and Forest Department under the ‘Vitthal Rakhumai Warkari Yojana – 2025’, aimed at extending financial relief to pilgrims undertaking the spiritually significant journey on foot or via private or public transport.
Aid for disability and hospitalisation
According to the GR, in case of injury or disability during the Wari, warkaris who suffer 40% to 60% of disability will be eligible for ₹74,000, while those with disability exceeding 60% will receive ₹2.5 lakh.
The State will also provide medical assistance for hospitalisation — warkaris admitted for over one week will be eligible for ₹16,000, and those hospitalised for less than a week will receive ₹5,400.
The scheme will be in effect for incidents occurring during the Wari period from June 16 to July 10, 2025, covering devotees journeying to Shri Kshetra Pandharpur, a prominent temple town in Solapur district, known for the veneration of Lord Vitthal and Goddess Rakhumai.
Application process and verification
To claim the financial assistance, the concerned warkari or their heir must submit an application to the District Collector, along with a certificate issued by the Tehsildar confirming the individual’s participation in Ashadhi Wari–2025. All Tehsildars have been directed to verify such claims and issue certificates accordingly, the GR said.
The District Collectors have been authorised to verify applications and sanction the aid after reviewing the Tehsildar’s certificate, along with death or medical documentation substantiating the mishap.
Following the conclusion of the Wari on July 10, all district collectors are required to submit a comprehensive report detailing the assistance provided in their respective jurisdictions by July 30, 2025.
Published – July 02, 2025 10:54 am IST