AP targets construction of 5,000 temples

metro india news  I amaravati

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to complete the construction of 5,000 temples across the state within the next two years using funds from the Srivani Trust. Chairing a review meeting on the Endowments Department at the Secretariat, the Chief Minister outlined a comprehensive roadmap for temple development, management, and pilgrim services.

Emphasising decentralised execution, Naidu proposed entrusting district administrations with the responsibility of overseeing temple construction in coordination with local public representatives. “Each constituency has the potential to develop 25 to 30 temples. Proposals should be collected locally and implemented swiftly,” he said. He also instructed officials to adopt three standardised temple designs initially under a pilot approach and ensure speedy approvals. Construction of compound walls for every temple was made mandatory.

Highlighting the importance of both sanctity and hygiene, the Chief Minister called for the preparation of master plans for 22 prominent temples across the state. While plans for temples such as Simhachalam, Annavaram, Dwaraka Tirumala, Penuganchiprolu, Srikalahasti, and Kanipakam are ready, he directed officials to expedite plans for the remaining temples. These master plans will focus on improving infrastructure, including traffic management, parking, accommodation, and sanitation.

Citing a sharp rise in pilgrim footfall, Naidu noted that major temples collectively recorded crores of visitors in 2025-26. He stressed that the Endowments Department must ensure comprehensive facilities, from drinking water to annadanam, for all devotees.

The Chief Minister also called for expanding free meal services in temples on the lines of Tirumala. Currently, around 80,000 devotees are served daily at 111 temples, with an annual expenditure of ₹157.85 crore. Training programs for temple kitchen staff were also proposed to maintain quality standards.

In a push towards digital governance, Naidu instructed officials to introduce WhatsApp-based services, develop dedicated websites for all temples, and create a centralised dashboard for monitoring operations. He further emphasised the need for protecting temple lands using blockchain technology and ensuring timely appointments to temple boards and advisory bodies.

Promoting spiritual tourism, the Chief Minister advocated for Temple Town Development Plans to improve surrounding areas and boost local economies. He urged officials to study Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams’ crowd management practices and adopt best practices across the state.