Chandrababu Naidu accelerates construction of 5,000 temples across Andhra Pradesh

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to speed up the construction of 5,000 temples across Andhra Pradesh and finalise their sites. The order came during a review meeting held late on Tuesday.

TTD Executive Officer Muddada Ravichandra told the meeting that proposals had been received for 4,192 temples from 161 constituencies in 28 districts, with 967 temples already completed.

Three-tier construction plan

Construction would be organised in three categories, prioritising SC, ST, fishermen and weaker-section colonies besides general areas. Alongside the new temples, Mr. Naidu ordered the restoration of 1,000 ancient temples and called for developing Shiva temples and Shakti Peethas.

He directed officials to digitise temple details and prepare management plans for 28,000 Endowments temples, 65 TTD temples and the proposed new temples.

Wider role for Srivari Sevaks

The Chief Minister suggested wider use of the 11.8 lakh Srivari Sevaks in temple services and greater participation of devotees. He called for training courses for priests and facilities for idol-making.

Mr. Naidu asked TTD to expand healthcare and education services, integrate its hospitals, strengthen cancer, eye and Ayurveda care, and involve specialist doctors as Srivari Sevaks.

He also sought expansion of TTD's 33 educational institutions, increased hostel capacity and faster completion of the Srivari temple at Amaravati. Mr. Naidu said Tirupati should be developed as a complete divine destination.

Source: The Hindu