Andhra Pradesh to fast-track construction of 5,000 temples
Andhra Pradesh CM Naidu has directed the TTD and Endowments Department to expedite construction of 5,000 temples across the state, with 967 already completed.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) and the Endowments Department to expedite the construction of 5,000 temples across Andhra Pradesh and finalise the remaining sites without delay.
The directive came during a review meeting held late Tuesday evening. TTD Executive Officer Muddada Ravichandra informed the Chief Minister that proposals for 4,192 temples have already been received from 161 constituencies across 28 districts. Of these, 967 temples have been completed so far.
The construction drive will be carried out in three categories, with priority given to Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe, and fishermen colonies, alongside general areas.
Mr. Naidu also ordered the restoration of 1,000 ancient temples and called for the development of Shiva temples and Shakti Peethas. He instructed officials to digitise temple details and prepare comprehensive management plans for the 28,000 temples under the Endowments Department, the 65 TTD temples, and the proposed new temples.
The Chief Minister suggested wider involvement of the 11.8 lakh Srivari Sevaks in temple services and encouraged greater participation of devotees. He also called for training courses for priests and the establishment of facilities for idol-making.
In addition, Mr. Naidu asked the TTD to expand its healthcare and education services. This includes integrating its hospitals, strengthening cancer, eye, and Ayurveda care, and involving 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 emphasised that Tirupati should be developed as a complete divine destination, integrating spiritual, cultural, and service-oriented initiatives.