The Maharashtra government has decided to establish Mukhyamantri Warkari Mahamandal to facilitate the Kirtankars and Warkaris of Maharashtra state. The government order to this effect was released yesterday by the Social Justice Department of Maharashtra. The headquarters of this Corporation will be situated at Pandharpur.

Every year, lakhs of Warkaris (followers of Lord Vithoba) from all sections of society, including peasants, labourers and farmers, set out on foot on a pilgrimage to Pandharpur, which is a centuries-old tradition. The Mukhyamantri Warkari Mahamandal will be working for the development of pilgrimage sites, providing medical assistance, food and security to the Warkaris and Kirtankars, insurance cover, infrastructure and other facilities and welfare schemes for the pilgrims.