Tirupati: The International Temples Convention and Expo (ITCX) 2025 concluded in Tirupati on Wednesday with a proposal to unite temples worldwide under a single organisation—International Temple Federation. Its aim will be to strengthen Sanatana Dharma and enhance global collaboration among temples worldwide.
ITCX chairman Prasad Lad described the proposed federation as a platform for knowledge sharing, skill development and problem-solving. “This will be a first-of-its-kind initiative in India, guided by an advisory board comprising eminent scholars, spiritual leaders, administrators and experts from various fields. Their insights will help shape policies, create sustainable practices, and foster a deeper understanding of our heritage”, Lad stated.
On the final day of ICTX on Wednesday, AP information technology minister Nara Lokesh highlighted the importance of efficient temple management and sustainable practices. He reaffirmed Andhra Pradesh government’s commitment to temple preservation and modernisation for enhancing devotees’ experience.
“Our technology-driven initiatives, such as WhatsApp-based service and drone surveillance, improve accessibility and security,” Lokesh said. He pointed out that WhatsApp services are being integrated to simplify temple entry, ticket bookings and performing rituals, reducing wait times and increasing convenience for devotees.
Drone surveillance will be used for crowd management and security, ensuring a swift response during large gatherings like Brahmotsavams.
The minister referred to the Sri Venkateswara Nitya Annadanam scheme, launched by late AP chief minister N.T. Rama Rao in Tirumala on April 6, 1985, with an initial fund of ₹1 crore. Today, backed by a corpus fund of ₹2,000 crore, the scheme is serving 1,59,500 meals on regular days and 2,05,000 meals on weekends.
Lokesh underlined Andhra Pradesh’s leadership in spiritual tourism, with 36–40 million pilgrims visiting the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams annually. He urged communities to preserve traditions by educating children about Indian mythology, reinforcing the belief that Manava Seva is Madhava Seva.
