Wed Jul 02 05:24:35 UTC 2025: Here’s a summarized news article based on the provided text:
**Maharashtra Announces Financial Aid for Warkaris Participating in Ashadhi Wari Pilgrimage**
**Mumbai, July 2, 2025:** The Maharashtra government has announced a financial assistance program for warkaris (devotees) participating in the annual Ashadhi Wari pilgrimage to Pandharpur. Under the ‘Vitthal Rakhumai Warkari Yojana – 2025’, the government will provide ₹4 lakh to the families of warkaris who die in accidents during the pilgrimage, which takes place between June 16 and July 10, 2025.
The scheme also offers assistance for injuries and disabilities sustained during the Wari. Warkaris with 40-60% disability will receive ₹74,000, while those with disabilities exceeding 60% will receive ₹2.5 lakh. Medical assistance will also be provided for hospitalisation, with ₹16,000 for stays longer than a week and ₹5,400 for shorter stays.
To claim the assistance, warkaris or their heirs must apply to the District Collector with proof of participation in the Wari. District Collectors are authorized to verify applications and sanction aid based on provided documentation.
District Collectors are required to submit a comprehensive report detailing the assistance provided in their respective jurisdictions by July 30, 2025. The initiative aims to provide financial relief to devotees undertaking the spiritually significant journey to Pandharpur.
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