Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji

Panaji, Aug 1: The Goa government has reached out to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, seeking land in Pandharpur or a nearby taluka to build a Warkari Bhavan for Goan pilgrims, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant informed the Assembly on Thursday.

The proposed facility aims to support nearly 5,000 Goan Warkaris who walk over 370 km during the annual pilgrimage to Pandharpur. “Devotees from Pernem to Canacona participate in this yatra. We will construct the Bhavan at the earliest,” Sawant assured.

The announcement came in response to a private members’ resolution moved by MLA Premendra Shet, who also urged the government to introduce a financial aid scheme for the pilgrims. The resolution received support across party lines.

However, Goa Forward Party chief Vijai Sardesai criticised the delay, recalling that a similar assurance was made a year ago. “Pandharpur lies in Maharashtra, and coordination with their government is essential,” he remarked.

Acknowledging the delay, Sawant said the scheme was not finalised last year but would now be fast-tracked. “We’ll design a proper plan with the Art and Culture or Social Welfare Department. Pilgrims can apply two months before the wari, and the aid will be credited directly to their accounts,” he said, adding that necessary budget allocations would be made.