RATNAGIRI: Minister for endowments Pydikondala Manikyala Rao has launched ‘anna prasadam’ scheme at Ratnagiri, the abode of Sri Veera Venkata Satyanarayana Swamy here Wednesday. The scheme came into existence at Sri Veera Venkata Satyanarayana Swamy temple at Annavaram and Kanaka Durga temple in Vijayawada. It would be launched at three more important temples shortly.
Later, Manikyala Rao said the respective temple authorities were directed to implement the scheme effectively, without giving scope for any criticism. Any lapses in implementation of the scheme would be viewed seriously, he said and added that plans were afoot to start a medical university by the Endowments Department shortly. The department would take steps to encourage Hindu Dharma apart from providing modern education. All temples would be renovated in the state.
Manikyala Rao said the services of 8,000 NMRs would be availed as per the need and categorically said they would not be sacked. The department would submit a report in this regard. New trust boards for the temples would also be appointed shortly.
Deputy chief minister Nimmakayala Chinna Rajappa, MP Thota Narasimham, Endowments commissioner YV Anuradha, MLAs V Subba Rao, D Raja, J Nehru, temple executive officer P Venkateswarlu, assistant commissioner E Jagannadham and others were present.