In a major development for history and heritage enthusiasts, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has sanctioned Rs 10 crore for the construction of a Shiv Smarak at the historic Panhala Fort in Kolhapur district. The funds have been allocated through the Urban Development Department, fulfilling a long-pending demand from local MLAs and lakhs of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj followers.

The decision was taken during a meeting at Vidhan Bhavan, where MLAs from Kolhapur urged the government to expedite the project. A government resolution approving the funds was promptly issued and handed over to the legislators.