Global Ayyappa Sangam; Gold Lockets; Ropeway; Know More
Thiruvananthapuram: The Travancore Devaswom Board is
also planning to organize a Global Ayyappa Sangam in Sabarimala on the
occasion of Vishu. TDB President P. S. Prasanth announced that Ayyappa devotees
from over fifty countries are expected to participate.
Additionally, the Board will seek approval from the Ministry
of Forest and Environment for the Sabarimala ropeway project within the
next two weeks. The foundation stone for the project is scheduled to be laid in
March.
Gold Lockets to Be Released for Vishu
If approved by the court, gold lockets engraved with images of Lord Ayyappa will be released as Vishu Kaineettam. The tender process for manufacturing the lockets in sizes of two grams, four grams, six grams, and eight grams has been completed.
The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has launched a special
mission to ensure a smooth and hassle- free experience for devotees
during the upcoming Mandalam-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season. The initiative
introduces significant enhancements to the pilgrimage route and associated
facilities.
Zonal Division for Efficient Management
As part of this initiative, the pilgrimage route from Pampa
to Sannidhanam will be divided into 40 designated zones, each equipped with
various facilities. To streamline operations, each zone will be supervised by a
special officer and an assistant special officer, supported by a dedicated team
of temple employees and daily wage workers.
The TDB has developed a detailed blueprint outlining the
necessary facilities in each zone, incorporating feedback from 1,200 staff
members with prior experience at Sabarimala.
Regular Review Meetings and Special Teams
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To ensure effective implementation, the Board will conduct
monthly review meetings on the first of every month to assess the progress of
preparations. Additionally, specialized teams will oversee essential services,
including:
- Appam
and Aravana preparation
- Nivedyam
offerings
- Drinking
water supply
- Accommodation
facilities
- Parking
arrangements
- Security
measures
To enhance transparency and prevent corruption, each of these teams will independently manage tenders for their respective services.
Training for Enhanced Administrative Efficiency
Senior officials of the Board will undergo training at the
Institute of Management in Government (IMG), Kerala, to improve administrative
efficiency. The training will focus on e-tendering, e-billing, and
e-governance, ensuring the Board adapts to modern technological advancements.
TDB President P. S. Prasanth emphasized the mission’s goal
of completing all preparations well in advance. "The Board has a
responsibility to ensure better facilities for devotees. We are also working
towards fully digitizing the process," he stated.
Record Revenue and Increased Pilgrim Footfall
Sabarimala has witnessed a significant increase in revenue
this year, with total earnings reaching Rs 440 crore, marking an Rs
86 crore increase from the previous year. Additionally, 55 lakh pilgrims
visited Sabarimala this year, surpassing last year’s figures.
Over 15,000 officials participated in management of pilgrimage.
Furthermore, Rs 147 crore was spent in connection with the Mandala
Mahotsav.
