Daijiworld Media Network - Byndoor (SP)

Byndoor, Sep 4: "Steps are being taken to constitute religious councils in all the 30 districts of the state, which will function under the state council. We will ensure that people with in-depth knowledge and without political affiliation would be included in the council," said minister, Kota Srinivas Poojary. He was speaking to media persons during his visit to Kollur on Tuesday, September 3.

The minister said that a modern dining hall constructed at a cost of Rs 21 crore at Goddess Mookambika temple at Kollur would soon be inaugurated in the presence of the chief minister. He revealed that 1,000 new staff would be appointed to temples in the state that are under the control of the government.

Noting that the issue of appointing managing committees to about a hundred temples falling under A and B categories is pending, he said that committees will soon be formed and district-wise training camps will be arranged for the members of these committees. "We plan to develop temples with poor revenue with the help of temples that have good revenue. The priests will be given training and Veda study schools would be opened. All temples will be visited, and discussions about their state of affairs and ways to improve them would be held the concerned," he stated.

During the progress review meeting of Kollur temple held at the temple premises on Tuesday with the participation of deputy commissioner, Byndoor MLA and officials of different departments, he said that steps would be taken to develop Kollur temple further.

Kota said that no one would be allowed to encroach upon land belonging to religious endowment department, and cow protection shelters would be opened at leading temples including Kollur. He added that history of ancient temples backed by impressive background would be taught to students through historical shows. "We will discuss with Sudha Murthy, who heads state tourism development committee, and take steps to improve facilities and cleanliness," he explained.