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The Maharashtra Planning Department, under the leadership of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, has granted revised administrative approval for the development and renovation of several key pilgrimage sites across the state, with total allocations exceeding ₹2,950 crore. This decision is expected to significantly enhance spiritual tourism and preserve the state's rich cultural and religious heritage.

A government resolution formalizing these approvals was issued on Wednesday, following cabinet-level clearance by the Apex Committee headed by the Chief Secretary during a meeting held on May 6, 2025, in Choundi.

Key Projects and Allocations:

1. Ashtavinayak Development Plan – ₹147.81 Crore

The Ashtavinayak pilgrimage circuit, which includes eight prominent Ganesh temples in Maharashtra, will undergo major infrastructure and amenity upgrades. Originally sanctioned for ₹92.19 crore in 2021-22, the revised plan now totals ₹147.81 crore. Of this:

• ₹100.53 crore is allocated for temple development, including:

  • ₹8.21 crore for Mayureshwar Temple, Morgaon (Pune)

  • ₹7.21 crore for Chintamani Temple, Theur

  • ₹7.84 crore for Vighneshwar Temple, Ozar

  • ₹12.14 crore for Mahaganapati Temple, Ranjangaon

  • ₹28.24 crore for Varadvinayak Temple, Mahad (Raigad)

  • ₹26.90 crore for Ballaleshwar Temple, Pali

  • ₹9.97 crore for Siddhatek Temple, Ahilyanagari

• The remaining ₹47.39 crore will cover electrification, lighting, architecture, GST, and miscellaneous expenses.

2. Jyotiba Temple, Kolhapur – ₹260 Crore

An allocation of ₹259.59 crore has been approved for the comprehensive development of the historic Jyotiba Temple. The plan includes:

• Restoration of Jyotiba and Yamai temples

• Beautification of trekking paths and hill slopes

• New infrastructure including a temple office, parking areas, water facilities, and toilets

• Development of religious landmarks like Jyot pillars, Kedar Vijay Garden, and multiple heritage water bodies

Implementation is set to be completed by March 31, 2027, under the supervision of the Kolhapur District Collector, with oversight from district and executive committees.

3. Tulja Bhavani Temple, Dharashiv – ₹1,865 Crore

The iconic Tulja Bhavani Temple, a major Shakti Peeth and one of Maharashtra’s most revered shrines, has been granted ₹1,865 crore for its redevelopment. The project aims to enhance facilities for the large number of devotees, particularly during festivals like Navratri.

The development plan emphasizes preserving the temple’s original architectural style and will be executed with guidance from archaeological experts. The Dharashiv District Collector will oversee implementation.

4. Ahilyadevi Holkar Memorial, Choundi – ₹681 Crore

To preserve and promote the legacy of Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar, ₹681.32 crore has been sanctioned for developing her birthplace at Choundi in Jamkhed taluka, Ahilyanagar district. The site will be transformed into a national heritage and spiritual tourism hub by May 31, 2028.

The plan involves conservation of historically significant structures and will be implemented under the district administration, with possible integration of funds from central schemes such as PRASAD and Swadesh Darshan.

These ambitious projects reflect Ajit Pawar’s proactive push for infrastructure-driven cultural preservation. The initiatives are also aligned with the objectives outlined in the Finance Minister's budget speech, aiming to elevate Maharashtra’s religious destinations to national and international prominence.