₹413 Crore Budget for Puri Jagannath Temple Approved; FM Radio, Special Arrangements for Pilgrims Announced

Puri: The managing committee of the Puri Jagannath Temple has sanctioned a budget of Rs 413 crore for the 2024-25 financial year. The temple is projected to have a surplus of Rs 103 crore after covering its expenses for the fiscal year.

Key decisions from the meeting include launching an FM radio station for the shrine and installing air-conditioned facilities at the Nata Mandap. The committee also plans to enhance accessibility by ensuring smooth darshan experiences for women, children, the elderly and differently-abled visitors.

Under the leadership of Gajapati King Dibyasingha Deb, the managing committee has decided to hold monthly meetings of the Niti (Rituals) sub-committee. Additionally, the temple will offer scholarships and incentives to the children of Srimandir servitors and collaborate with the Odisha Space Applications Centre (ORSAC) to address issues related to Srimandir’s land.

The committee expressed regret over a mishap during this year’s Rath Yatra at Srigundicha temple and will review video footage to identify those responsible. Furthermore, Badagrahis (caretakers) will now have authority over decisions regarding the presence of servitors on the chariots during Rath Yatra.