Dharma, adhyatma foundation above politics: Shinde

Kolhapur: The foundation (adhishthan) of dharma and adhyatma (religion and spirituality) is above politics, said deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde after receiving the 'Sant Shiromani Namdeo Maharaj' award at Pandharpur on Thursday.Namdeo Maharaj was the 14th-century saint who crisscrossed northern India to spread the teachings of Bhagwat dharma followed by the Warkari sect. His dohas, or couplets, are also found in Guru Granth Sahib revered by Sikhs."The govt places the foundation of religion and spirituality above politics. For the first time in history, the govt has announced grants for Warkari processions, along with facilities such as insurance coverage, health check-up camps, clean drinking water, accommodation, and sanitation," said Shinde."The govt has increased grants for pilgrimage sites in Maharashtra from Rs 2 crore to Rs 5 crore. Recognising temples as cultural centres, the govt has granted the status of ‘Rajya Mata' to the cow. Additionally, a dedicated Warkari Corporation has been established to address the needs of the Warkari community more effectively," added the deputy CM.