Pune: Maharashtra Government Approves ₹22.18 Crore Grant for Ashadi Ekadashi Wari 2025, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar Oversees Preparations
Pune News, June 14, 2025 – The Maharashtra government has sanctioned a substantial grant of ₹22.18 crore for the upcoming Ashadi Ekadashi Wari 2025 pilgrimage to Pandharpur. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar announced the decision during a review meeting for the Palkhi Sohala 2025 preparations, ensuring comprehensive facilities for devotees.
Key Announcements & Financial Aid
- ₹20,000 per Dindi: The state will provide financial assistance of ₹20,000 each to 1,109 Dindis (pilgrim groups) accompanying the 10 honorary Palkhis (palanquins).
- Total Grant: ₹2,21,80,000 (₹22.18 crore) has been allocated under the Social Justice and Special Assistance Department.
- Virtual Payment System: Funds will be directly transferred to Dindi leaders’ accounts via a VPDA (Virtual Personal Deposit Account) system, exempting standard documentation requirements.
Enhanced Facilities for Warkaris
Deputy CM Ajit Pawar directed officials to ensure:
✔ Essential amenities at Palkhi departure points, halting stations, and along the entire route.
✔ Strict safety measures to prevent inconvenience to devotees.
✔ Barricading near excavation zones in Dive Ghat to avoid accidents due to loose rocks.
✔ Restrictions on public access to hilly areas for crowd control.
Administrative Approvals & Committee Oversight
- The decision follows last year’s precedent, with the Pune Divisional Commissioner overseeing fund distribution.
- A special committee was formed on June 22, 2024, to standardize procedures.
- Flexibility in expenditure norms was granted under Government Resolution No. BGT-2024/PK-51/Budget.
Funding & Transparency Measures
- Expenses will be covered under Demand No. N-3, Head 2235-B361 (Publicity & Publications) for FY 2025-26.
- Deputy Commissioner (General Administration, Pune) appointed as the Controlling Officer.
- Tahsildar (Pune Division) authorized to withdraw and disburse funds.
Background & Legal Framework
The decision aligns with the Finance Department’s GR No. VIAPR-2013/PK-30/2013/Rules (April 17, 2015) and approvals from the Tourism and Cultural Affairs Department.
Officials Present at the Meeting
- Dr. Chandrakant Pulkundwar, Divisional Commissioner, Pune
- Amitesh Kumar, Pune City Police Commissioner
- Vinay Kumar Chaube, Additional Officials
Ajit Pawar emphasized, “No devotee should face hardships during the Wari. Every facility—water, sanitation, and security—must be prioritized.”
