Kanaka Durga Trust Board clears AI monitoring, laddu ATMs for Dasara 2026

The Sri Durga Malleswara Swamy Varla Devasthanam Trust Board has approved a set of technology-driven systems and infrastructure works to handle pilgrim volumes expected during the coming Dasara Navaratri celebrations. The decisions were taken at the board's meeting on Tuesday and announced to the media by its chairman, Borra Radhakrishna (Gandhi).

A central element of the plan is an AI-based Devotee Monitoring System, awarded to Amaravathi Software Innovations Pvt. Ltd. for ₹13,39,300. The system is to include facial recognition and database matching for security tracking, live displays of anticipated darshan queue waiting times, automatic number plate recognition for validating vehicle passes, and a Central Command Dashboard backed by round-the-clock technical support.

For prasadam distribution, the board cleared the installation and operation of smart laddu vending machines, commonly called laddu ATMs. Sri Raj Computers & IT Solutions was the lowest bidder, securing the contract at a landed price of ₹6,95,000, which covers five years of maintenance. The machines are intended to make prasadam distribution faster, more transparent and contact-free.

Other technology approvals cover automated vehicle and pedestrian access control, temporary CCTV networks, and LED screens at key locations for live festival coverage.

On the temple's international outreach, the board sanctioned the deputation of a six-member Vedic staff delegation to Australia. The priests will conduct the Sri Durga Malleswara Swamy Kalyanotsavam and Kumkumarchana ceremonies for devotees there.

Several civil works were also approved. These include stainless steel frames around the Sri Malleswara Swamy Temple and rain protection covers for the Shanti Homam area, together estimated at ₹25 lakh. The board further cleared temporary queue lines, waterproof shamiyanas and protective sheds on the uphill route, along with hot-air ventilation for the new downhill Laddu Potu kitchen, improvements to the old Laddu Potu kitchen, and the purchase of food-grade laddu trays.

An annual allocation of ₹63,01,200 was approved for outsourcing 20 drivers and five conductors for temple transport operations. Temple authorities said the sanctioned works would begin immediately to ensure smooth arrangements for the large number of devotees expected during the festival.