The government of Andhra Pradesh is set to establish a trust aimed at raising funds for the construction of Venkateshwara temples not only throughout the state but also in the capitals of other states.
According to Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, who spoke to reporters in Tirupati following a visit to Tirumala with his family on Friday, this initiative follows the earlier introduction of the Anna Danam and Prana Danam programs. He indicated that the new initiative will be focused singularly on the service of the deity.
Naidu mentioned that the funds gathered through this trust would be utilized in an organized manner. He also announced that measures would be taken to reclaim land and other properties belonging to the Lord that have been illegally occupied in Tirumala.
The Chief Minister emphasized that all seven hills are wholly owned by the Lord and stressed the importance of preserving their sanctity, asserting they should not be used for any commercial ventures. He vowed that the government would reclaim all lands and properties that have been allocated for unauthorized commercial activities.
Previously, the former government granted permissions for hotels such as Mumtaz, Emaar, and Devlok to utilize 35.32 acres of land close to the hills. However, Naidu stated that these permissions are being revoked to prevent commercial exploitation of the area surrounding the hills.
In line with various protests aimed at preserving the sanctity of Tirumala over the past five years, a purification process is currently underway.
