Source: India Abroad News Service


ALLAHABAD, INDIA, January 2, 2001: Taking precautionary measures for the estimated 70 million devotees who are expected to pilgrimage to the holy “Sangam” at Allahabad, the Uttar Pradesh government is providing insurance coverage. Allahabad commissioner Sada Kant, who has orchestrated the huge event, is reported as saying, “Each of the visitors in the 20- to 60-year age group would be insured for US$ 2,174. Others will get an insurance coverage of US$1,087.” Insurance will be paid to the pilgrim’s surviving family. The cause of death must be other than natural and occur during the festivities. Sacred dips in the river at Allahabad will start January 9th and end on Maha Sivaratri, February 21st.