Date:08/04/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/04/08/stories/2008040852270200.htm

Andhra Pradesh

Minister seeks blessings for people

Correspondent

Chittoor: Medical education and insurance Minister Galla Aruna Kumari after worshiping Varasiddi Vinayaka Swamy, Irala mandal on Monday on the occasion of the Telugu New Year’s day said that she was praying to Varasiddi Vinayaka Swamy to shower his blessings on the people to live happily and in prosperity. Talking to media persons she said that the temple, Varasiddi Vinayaka Swamy in a village Kanipakam, in the past has gained popularity and is attracting the pilgrims in large numbers not only from the State but also from across the country. To meet their demands several development works would be under taken with an expenditure of Rs.32 crore. Mahaprakaram and prakaram for the temple would be constructed at a cost of Rs.11.40 crore. Like wise VIP, VVIP cottages at a cost of Rs.10 crore would be taken up besides construction of dormitory at a cost of Rs. 20 lakh and laying of 100 and 60 ft. roads with an expenditure of Rs. 2.024 crore and for the internal roads Rs. 3.60 crore.

In addition to this, construction of Kalyana Mandapam would be taken up. Most importantantly, pilgrims would be provided meals on a subsidised rate of Rs.10. which is not being offered by any other temple in the State, besides providing free meal for 500 pilgrims said Galla Aruna Kumari. Temple executive officer and joint commissioner G. Kesavulu, Trust Board Chair Person Sathyanarayana, members L. Srihari, Srivalli, Munirathnam Reddy and Gangadharam were present.