Dahi Handi 2026: Maharashtra Govt Announces INR 10 Lakh Insurance Cover for 1.60 Lakh Govindas
The Maharashtra government is providing insurance for 1.60 lakh Govindas for the 2026 Dahi Handi festival. The state-funded policy offers INR 10 lakh for accidental death/total disability, INR 5 lakh for partial disability, and up to INR 1 lakh for medical expenses. Participants must register via the Maharashtra State Dahi Handi Govinda Association to qualify for coverage.
The Maharashtra government has announced a comprehensive insurance safety net covering 1.60 lakh Govindas ahead of the upcoming Dahi Handi festival. The initiative aims to provide financial protection to participants who form multi-tiered human pyramids during the traditional celebrations.
Financial Protection and Compensation Details
According to the official Government Resolution (GR) issued by the Sports and Youth Services Department, the special insurance coverage provides distinct tiers of compensation depending on the severity of any accident or injury sustained during practice or performance, reports Times of India:
- Accidental Death and Permanent Disability: Families will receive INR 10 lakh in the event of a fatal accident or total permanent disability, including the complete loss of both eyes or two limbs.
- Partial Disability: Compensation of INR 5 lakh is allocated for the loss of one hand, one leg, or one eye.
- Medical Treatment: The policy covers actual hospitalisation expenses up to INR 1 lakh for injuries sustained during human pyramid formations. Planning a Ganpati Trip to Konkan? MSRTC Announces 5,220 Extra Buses, Group Bookings and Discounts.
Implementation and Mandatory Registration
The entire cost of the insurance premiums will be financed through the State Sports Development Fund. To qualify for the coverage, participants must be officially registered and verified through the Maharashtra State Dahi Handi Govinda Association, ensuring that only eligible individuals meeting age requirements and active training criteria are enrolled.
Authorities have emphasised that event organisers must strictly comply with all safety guidelines, local administrative rules, and judicial directives. Organisers are also tasked with ensuring immediate medical assistance is available at event sites to handle any contingencies during the festival.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 07, 2026 07:30 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).