TIRUMALA: In a landmark decision in temple administration across the country, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Trust Board has announced a pioneering Group Life Insurance Scheme offering Rs 2 lakh relief to the families of pilgrims who die due to natural causes while visiting the hill shrine.
Earlier, the TTD provided insurance coverage solely to pilgrims who died in accidents within Tirumala or along the Ghat roads leading from Alipiri.
In a major departure from this legacy practice, the board has now extended protection to cover natural deaths—such as sudden health emergencies during pilgrimage.
Elaborate steps for Brahmotsavams, CM to present silk robes on Sept 15
Briefing the media at Annamayya Bhavan on Wednesday following a high-level board meeting, TTD Chairman BR Naidu, alongside Executive Officer Muddada Ravichandra, outlined key employee and pilgrim welfare decisions taken by the board.
Demonstrating equal commitment to its workforce, the board enhanced accident insurance coverage for families of TTD employees who die in accidents on duty in Tirumala from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 10 lakh, while also extending Employees Health Scheme (EHS) benefits to retired CPS and NPS pensioners on par with OPS beneficiaries.
Highlighting the upcoming festival schedule, Naidu announced that all arrangements have been finalised for the annual Srivari Salakatla Brahmotsavams from September 15 to 23, preceded by Ankurarpanam on September 14.
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu will present traditional silk garments (Pattu Vastrams) to Lord Venkateswara on behalf of the State government on September 15 during Dwajarohanam, scheduled between 5.30 and 7 pm in Meena Lagnam.
The Chief Minister will also participate in Pedda Sesha Vahana Seva at 9 pm that day.
On the morning of September 16, the Chief Minister is slated to inaugurate 25 electric buses donated to the TTD by Reliance Industries, and officially launch the TTD’s diaries and calendars for 2027.
With Navaratri Brahmotsavams following from October 12 to 20, the TTD is anticipating a 15% to 20% surge in pilgrim turnout compared to last year, particularly for the flagship Garuda Seva.
Among other key decisions, the TTD Board approved an Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) proposal to construct a food-waste biogas plant via water hydrolysis operated by GPS Renewables with Rs 2.80 crore. The board also sanctioned gold-plating projects for temples in Narayanavanam and Chennai, initiated proposals for 400 outsourcing posts to bolster laddu manufacturing, and extended lease terms for the Telugu and Sanskrit Academies in Tirupati.