Pune: The Maharashtra State Dahi Handi Govinda Association has initiated a statewide campaign to secure insurance coverage for Govindas across Maharashtra, including Mumbai. The association has called on all participating Govindas to submit their insurance applications by August 24.

The insurance coverage period will be in effect from August 14 until 6:00 AM on August 28, coinciding with the Dahi Handi festival, where Govindas form human pyramids as part of the celebrations. The preparations for the festival are already underway, with teams practicing the intricate formations.

The state government has decided to extend free insurance coverage to 75,000 Govindas during the 2024 Dahi Handi festival, a move that mirrors last year's initiative. This decision aims to provide financial protection to families in the event of a Govinda’s death or serious injury during the festival.

The sports department issued an official government resolution on July 25, 2024, outlining the details of the insurance coverage. The Maharashtra State Dahi Handi Govinda Association has been tasked with ensuring that the insurance reaches the intended recipients.

Govinda teams are required to submit a request letter from their respective organizations, along with an application and a list containing the names, ages, and mobile numbers of all participating Govindas by August 24.

These documents must be scanned and emailed to gi.mrdga@gmail.com. The association has clarified that Govindas under the age of 14 will not be eligible for the insurance coverage.