Andhra Pradesh CM orders construction of 5,000 temples

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has instructed the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) and the Endowments Department to accelerate the construction of 5,000 temples across the state. Officials are tasked with finalizing sites as soon as possible to begin work.

According to TTD Executive Officer Muddada Ravi Chandra, proposals for 4,192 temples have been received from 161 constituencies across 28 districts, with 967 temples already completed. The project will prioritize SC and ST colonies, fishermen settlements, and areas housing weaker sections.

In addition to new constructions, the Chief Minister ordered the restoration of 1,000 existing ancient temples. Naidu also suggested the possibility of constructing Lord Venkateswara temples in the capitals of other states, noting that countries like Mauritius have expressed interest. To support these initiatives, he recommended utilizing funds from the Srivani Trust and training priests through specialized courses.