Maharashtra launches free insurance for Dahi Handi participants, up to ₹10 million coverage

The Maharashtra state government has approved a free insurance scheme for the Dahi Handi festival in 2026. Around 1.6 million participants, known as goavindas, will be covered without paying any premium. The scheme provides up to ₹10 lakh compensation for death or total loss of both hands, feet or eyes, ₹5 lakh for loss of a single limb or eye, and up to ₹1 lakh for hospital‑treatment expenses.

Eligibility is limited to goavindas registered through the Maharashtra State Dahi Handi Goavinda Association and who take part in building the human pyramid. The financial burden of the programme will be met by the state’s Sports Development Fund, ensuring no cost to the participants.