In a significant move, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams Board of Trustees have decided to shut down all the private eating outlets and restaurants at the hill-top temple town. Instead, all devotees can eat for free at Annaprasadam (food) distribution centres, of which many more will be set up.
The aim is to provide the same food to all those visiting the temple. Those who are running the food outlets will be issued licences to carry out some other business.
Following the Board’s meeting, the TTD Chairman Subba Reddy informed that Rs.3,096 crore had been approved as budget for temple upkeep and related expenses for the fiscal year 2022-23.
The Trust Board had approved the proposal to construct Sri Padmavati Children’s Hospital at a cost of Rs.230 crore. This was suggested by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister, Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy and the project will be completed in two years.
Other important decisions taken by the Board included computerisation of Sri Venkateswara Institute of Medical Sciences; setting up of Rs. 25 crore fund for provision of cashless treatment to its employees and pensioners in corporate hospitals; and supply of Ayurvedic products by the TTD Ayurveda Pharmacy all over the State of Andhra Pradesh.
The Board, according to Subba Reddy, following the reduction of Covid-19 pandemic intensity has decided to resume the "Arjita Sevas" and darshans that were stalled since March 2020.
