Guntur: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has declared several significant measures aimed at improving the management and staffing of temples across the state. In a recent announcement, Naidu stated that only Hindus will be employed in Hindu temples, and he has outlined a series of financial incentives and reforms for temple personnel and operations.

Under the new policy, the salary for temple priests, known as archakas, will see a substantial increase. The monthly wage for 1,683 priests will rise from Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000. Additionally, 'Nai Brahmins'—the barbers working in temples—will receive a minimum monthly salary of Rs 25,000. Unemployed youth who have studied Ved Vidya will be provided with a monthly allowance of Rs 3,000.

The state government will also enhance financial support for smaller temples through the 'Dhoop Deep Naivedayam Yojana,' raising the assistance amount from Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000 per month. Furthermore, two additional board members will be added to the temple trust boards for temples with revenues exceeding Rs 20 crore, bringing the total to 17 members. These new positions will include one Brahmin and one barber Brahmin, fulfilling a promise made by the NDA prior to the elections.

Naidu emphasized that no employment should be given to non-Hindus in Hindu temples and announced plans to reclaim 87,000 acres of temple land currently under illegal occupation. He also voiced his opposition to forced conversions in the state.

Additionally, Naidu has allocated Rs 10 lakh to each temple under the Srivani Trust, with provisions for additional funding if necessary after reviewing the requirements. He stressed the need for accountability in managing the Srivani Trust Fund and directed the formation of a committee to protect temple properties and implement an online system for all temples.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the importance of maintaining cleanliness around temples to foster a spiritual atmosphere. A new committee comprising members from the Tourism, Hindu Charitable, and Forest Departments will be established to oversee the development of temples, particularly those in forested areas, to enhance their accessibility and preserve their spiritual and natural significance.

In his meeting with the Hindu Religious Endowments Department, Naidu condemned the attacks on Hindu temples during the previous administration and called for stringent action against those responsible. He reiterated that forced religious conversions would not be tolerated in Andhra Pradesh.

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