ANDHRA PRADESH: TTD Proposes Renaming Renigunta Airport to Sri Venkateswara
TTD Board’s Strategic Resolutions
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Board of Trustees, in an emergency meeting on June 17, 2025, proposed renaming Renigunta Airport as Sri Venkateswara International Airport. TTD Chairman B.R. Naidu announced that a formal request will be submitted to aviation authorities to facilitate the change. The decision aims to reflect the spiritual significance of Tirupati.
Bengaluru Temple Expansion Plans
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar urged TTD to construct a larger Sri Venkateswara temple in Bengaluru, citing the inadequacy of the existing smaller facility. The board resolved to initiate construction once suitable land is allocated. This move underscores TTD’s commitment to expanding its spiritual outreach.
Electric Bus Initiative for Devotees
Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy pledged 100 electric buses to TTD for free transportation of devotees in Tirumala. The initiative aims to enhance accessibility and sustainability for pilgrims visiting the sacred hill shrine. Implementation is expected to streamline devotee services.
- Bus Allocation: 100 electric buses for free devotee transport.
- Objective: Improve accessibility and eco-friendly pilgrimage.
CSIR Laboratory in Tirupati
The TTD board approved leasing land for a CSIR laboratory in Tirupati to ensure quality testing of essential supplies like ghee, water, and pulses. The facility will bolster TTD’s commitment to maintaining high standards for offerings and services. This marks a significant step in quality assurance.
Educational and Cultural Programs
TTD will collaborate with the Samarasatta Foundation to train 1,600 students across seven TTD schools in human values and personality development. A program named Mana Sariyam will promote Sanatana Dharma and Telugu cultural heritage in TTD educational institutions. These initiatives aim to foster spiritual and cultural education.
- Mana Sariyam: Focus on Sanatana Dharma and Telugu heritage.
- Priest Training: Partnership with Samarasatta Foundation.
Special Programs at Padmavati Temple
Special programs under the title Saubhagyam will be organized at the Padmavati Ammavari Temple in Tiruchanur during Varalakshmi Vratham. These events aim to enhance the spiritual experience for devotees. The board emphasized enriching festival celebrations.
Leadership and Oversight
The meeting, chaired by B.R. Naidu, was attended by TTD Executive Officer Shyamala Rao, Additional Executive Officer Venkaiah Chowdary, and board members. The resolutions reflect TTD’s multifaceted approach to spiritual, infrastructural, and cultural development. The outcomes are poised to strengthen Tirupati’s global spiritual prominence.