Belagavi : Chief minister DK Shivakumar on Monday laid the foundation stone for development projects worth Rs 215.3 crore at Renuka Yallamma Temple in Savadatti to improve infrastructure and facilities for millions of annual visitors.
Official records show the shrine possesses nearly 47 kg of gold and jewellery, which would be used to decorate the deity. Former minister HK Patil sought a one-time grant of Rs 200 crore and another Rs 100 crore for comprehensive development. The initiative would be launched at Yallamma Temple.
Shivakumar said state govt would formulate a policy through muzrai department to allow gold and jewellery donated to temples to be used to adorn their respective deities. Shivakumar said he had directed muzrai department to prepare a comprehensive inventory of gold and jewellery held by temples across Karnataka . Temple resources and revenues must be utilised effectively for religious and developmental purposes,” he said. Shivakumar said he prayed to Goddess Yallamma for Karnataka’s welfare and strength to serve its people.
“The ornaments offered by devotees should be used for the deity itself. He described Yallamma Gudda as a spiritually vibrant pilgrimage centre providing solace and hope to devotees. Minister KS Basavanthappa, legislators, deputy commissioner Mohammad Roshan and senior officials attended.