TTD dissolves Srivani Trust, announces key reforms

By The Capital

On 18 Nov 2024 18:22:42

TTD dissolves Srivani Trust, announces key reforms

The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Governing Council, chaired by BR Naidu, has introduced significant changes

The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Governing Council, chaired by BR Naidu, has introduced significant changes, including the dissolution of the Srivani Trust and reforms aimed at enhancing the experience for devotees.

The council decided to transfer funds from Srivani Trust ticket sales directly into the TTD account and shift private bank deposits to government banks. This follows allegations by the Telugu Desam Party, including Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu, against the trust's operations. The council also resolved to terminate lands allotted to the Sharada Peetham in Visakhapatnam during the previous regime and demolish structures built there.

Additionally, a new policy mandates voluntary retirement (VRS) or government department transfers for non-Hindu religious employees in TTD. For the benefit of devotees, measures have been initiated to enable darshanam within two to three hours, with plans to reduce waiting times in compartments.

The council also committed to clearing Tirumala's dumping yard within three months and renamed Srinivassethu as "Garuda Varadhi." TTD has requested the State government to handover the 20 acres allocated to Devalok in Alipiri to TTD and imposed a ban on political discussions in Tirumala's vicinity, warning of legal action against violations.

In a move to serve locals, the council announced free Srivari darshan on the first Tuesday of every month. It also introduced a new dish in Annadanam services and formed a committee to ensure the use of high-quality ghee in Srivari prasadam. Employees will benefit from an increase in Brahmotsava gifts, now raised to Rs 15,400 from Rs 14,000.

The council further decided to cancel 4,000 SED tickets previously allotted to the Tourism Department. These reforms, aimed at transparency, better governance, and improved devotee experience, mark a transformative phase in TTD’s administration, said TTD.