The Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy temple management has decided to organise the Yogandhra programme in a grand manner.

The State government had earlier decided to organise yoga sessions with various themes ahead of the International Yoga Day on June 21. Under the theme of temples, it was decided that a yoga session would be organised on June 11 at three temples in the State, including Srisailam temple.

Meanwhile, a meeting of Board of Trustees of Srisailam temple was held on Tuesday. Temple chairman Pothugunta Ramesh Naidu, who participated via video-conference, suggested that the Yogandhra programme be organised in an efficient and effective manner.

“A special yoga programme should be organised in a foolproof manner at the temple on June 11, followed by the International Yoga Day celebrations on June 21. Officials should formulate a comprehensive action plan and implement the programmes accordingly. Steps should be taken to ensure active participation of locals and publicity should be given to encourage pilgrim participation in large numbers in the two events,” Mr. Ramesh Naidu said.

As part of environmental conservation efforts and with a focus on beautifying the temple precincts, an action plan should be devised for extensive tree-planting during the upcoming monsoon season, he said. Steps should be taken to plant at least 5,000 to 6,000 saplings within the temple premises before the conclusion of monsoon, the temple chairman added.

Several Trust Board members suggested that steps be taken to plant not only shade-giving trees but also sacred trees associated with deities. They also emphasised the need to exercise due care in nurturing and protecting the planted saplings.

Mr. Ramesh Naidu also said that special attention should be paid to enhancing the amenities for devotees. He directed that plans should be formulated to construct a Pilgrims’ Amenities Complex, modelled after the facilities available in Tirumala. He directed the officials to expedite the ongoing construction works of a queue complex at the temple.

During the meeting, several members called for the implementation of additional measures to improve sanitation and waste management within the temple premises. A resolution was also passed to increase the monthly remuneration paid to the staff performing duties at the Jyothisiddhavatam temple, a temple adopted by the Srisailam temple management.