Maha govt announces insurance cover for warkaris during 'Ashadhi Ekadashi' procession

If a warkari falls sick, he will get Rs 35,000 for medication, the release said.As a long-standing tradition, the chief minister of Maharashtra offers prayers at the temple dedicated to Lord Vitthal in Pandharpur on Ashadhi Ekadashi every year.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Wednesday said warkaris, the devotees of Lord Vithhal, will get insurance cover during the 'Ashadhi Ekadashi' procession which culminates in the temple town of Pandharpur.

The insurance cover will be valid for 30 days, a statement from the Chief Minister's Office said.

Warkaris take part processions from different parts of the state every year as a mark of tribute to various saints. The pilgrimage concludes in Pandharpur town of Solapur district on Ashadhi Ekadashi, which is observed with reverence by followers of Lord Vitthal in Maharashtra.

This year, the Ashadhi Ekadashi falls on June 29.

As per the CMO's statement, the kin of a warkari will get Rs five lakh in case of his death during the 'wari' (procession) to Pandharpur.

In case, a warkari suffers from permanent disability during the procession, he will get Rs one lakh, while in case of partial disability, the person will be given Rs 50,000, it said. If a warkari falls sick, he will get Rs 35,000 for medication, the release said.

As a long-standing tradition, the chief minister of Maharashtra offers prayers at the temple dedicated to Lord Vitthal in Pandharpur on 'Ashadhi Ekadashi' every year.