The Andhra Pradesh endowments department has initiated a landmark project to construct 5,000 bhajan mandirs and temples throughout the state, backed by an unprecedented budget allocation of Rs 750 crore. This ambitious program represents the largest financial commitment ever made for temple construction in the state's history.
Historic Financial Commitment for Religious Infrastructure
Endowments minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy emphasized the significance of this allocation, stating that the project aims to spearhead the propagation of Sanathana Dharma on an unprecedented scale. The entire Rs 750 crore funding will be sourced from the Sri Venkateswara Aalayala Nirmanam trust, commonly known as the Srivani trust, which operates under the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams.
TTD's Active Partnership in the Initiative
TTD chairman BR Naidu confirmed the temple trust's participation, noting that promoting Sanathana Dharma and glorifying Lord Venkateswara has always been central to TTD's mission. "TTD will collaborate closely with the endowments department in constructing these temples across Andhra Pradesh," Naidu stated, highlighting the cooperative nature of this massive undertaking.
Detailed Funding Structure for Different Temple Categories
The minister explained that temples and bhajan mandirs will be categorized based on multiple factors, with financial assistance varying according to land extent:
- For structures proposed on 5-7.99 cents of land: Rs 10 lakh financial assistance
- For temples planned on 8-9.99 cents of land: Rs 15 lakh allocation
- For temples requiring 10 cents or more: Rs 20 lakh funding
Additional Category for Larger Temples
Following chief minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu's recommendation, the project will also include construction of larger temples with Rs 30 lakh allocations per temple, utilizing TTD's Srivani trust funds. This additional category expands the scope and impact of the religious infrastructure development program.
Current Progress and Implementation Status
Administrative and financial approvals have already been secured for the construction of 463 temples across Andhra Pradesh. Additionally, approval processes are currently underway for 99 more temples, demonstrating the project's forward momentum. The endowments department will serve as the primary implementing agency for this comprehensive initiative spanning the entire state.
This massive temple construction project represents a significant investment in Andhra Pradesh's religious and cultural infrastructure, with the potential to transform spiritual landscapes across numerous communities while promoting traditional values and practices.
