India, May 14 -- The Maharashtra government has approved Rs.2,267 crore for land acquisition as part of preparations for the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela in Nashik, while deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde on Tuesday announced financial assistance of Rs.5 crore each for 13 Akhadas to support their preparations for the mega religious congregation.

A high-level review meeting chaired by chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and Dy CM Shinde was held to assess the preparations for the Kumbh Mela. The meeting also included discussions with seers and mahants from 13 Akhadas regarding arrangements for the forthcoming event in Nashik.

Addressing reporters after the meeting, Shinde said the state government has drawn up a comprehensive mega plan f...