Maharashtra Directs ASHA Workers to Launch Health Campaign for Pandharpur Pilgrims
On Sunday, the Maharashtra Health Department directed Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) workers across the state to launch an extensive health awareness campaign for lakhs of Warkaris (devotees) embarking on the annual Ashadhi Wari pilgrimage to the Vitthal temple in Pandharpur. The directive comes ahead of the Ashadhi Ekadashi festival, which falls on July 25 this year.
Sanjay Katkar, the Commissioner of Health Services and Mission Director of the National Health Mission, issued the directive to ensure health precautions are communicated to the devotees. The centuries-old pilgrimage sees lakhs of devotees from across Maharashtra walk for several days to reach the temple town of Pandharpur.
Under the new instructions, ASHA workers will conduct village-level meetings, home visits, and group interactions. They are tasked with using Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials to spread awareness about critical health precautions both before and during the journey.
The health department has instructed ASHA workers to inform pilgrims about the specific locations of health camps set up along the Wari route. They will also provide details about the various medical services being offered by the health department to assist the walking devotees.
A key focus of the campaign is educating pilgrims on the importance of maintaining personal hygiene and sanitation. ASHA workers will advise the Warkaris on the use of safe drinking water and encourage regular handwashing throughout their journey.
The official advisory stresses preventive measures against heat-related illnesses, dehydration, and diarrhoeal diseases. Pilgrims are advised to carry essential medicines with them and to seek immediate medical attention if they develop any symptoms of infectious diseases.
Furthermore, the health department has called for special attention to be given to vulnerable groups. ASHA workers have been directed to focus on the specific health needs of senior citizens, pregnant women, and young children participating in the massive annual pilgrimage.
