Mon Mar 24 14:47:20 UTC 2025: ## Tirumala Temple Trust Cancels Land Allotment, Announces Reforms

**TIRUMALA, March 24, 2025** – The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) board today cancelled a land allocation to Mumtaz Hotels in Alipiri, Tirupati, following directives from Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. The decision, announced after a lengthy board meeting, is part of a broader initiative to protect and utilize temple properties across the country and prevent unauthorized encroachment.

TTD Chairman B.R. Naidu and Executive Officer J. Shyamala Rao stated that the trust will prioritize resolving long-standing legal disputes over TTD lands. A significant policy shift involves limiting employment within the institution to Hindus, with plans to transfer employees of other faiths to alternative government positions.

Further initiatives include:

* **Religious Focus:** The land near the foothill will be dedicated to spiritual and religious purposes, prohibiting commercial activity.
* **Temple Expansion:** The TTD will seek land grants from various state governments to construct Lord Venkateswara temples in each state capital.
* **Community Support:** Kalyanotsavams (auspicious ceremonies) will be organized at major Andhra Pradesh temples, with financial aid from the SriVani funds allocated for temple renovations in villages and support for underprivileged communities.
* **Operational Changes:** VIP darshan timings are shifted to 5:30 a.m., while the TTD will explore salary increases and improved healthcare for potu workers (temple service providers). Donation passbooks for organic product suppliers are cancelled. Reconstruction of several guest houses is also planned.
* **Project Cancellations:** The 20-acre land allotted for a Science City and museum in Alipiri has been revoked.
* **Accessibility Improvements:** The TTD is exploring offline darshan options for senior citizens and the differently-abled.
* **New Committees:** New Agama advisory and contract lecturer committees are being formed to address specific concerns.

These sweeping changes reflect the TTD’s commitment to strengthening its religious focus and safeguarding its assets.

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