Kanaka Durga Trust Board approves AI monitoring and smart laddu vending for Dasara 2026

The Sri Durga Malleswara Swamy Varla Devasthanam Trust Board has approved a series of technology-driven initiatives and infrastructure projects at its meeting held on Tuesday. Releasing details to the media, Board Chairman Borra Radhakrishna (Gandhi) said that the board approved multiple tenders covering Artificial Intelligence (AI) monitoring, automated access control, smart prasadam vending, and global cultural outreach ahead of the upcoming Dasara Navaratri celebrations.

To manage the massive influx of pilgrims, the AI-based Devotee Monitoring System has been awarded to Amaravathi Software Innovations Pvt. Ltd. for ₹13,39,300. It includes facial recognition and database matching for security tracking, real-time displays of expected darshan queue waiting times, automatic number plate recognition for vehicle pass validation, and a Central Command Dashboard with 24/7 technical support.

In another pilgrim-centric move, the board also approved the installation and operation of smart laddu prasadam vending machines, also known as laddu ATMs. Sri Raj Computers & IT Solutions emerged as the lowest bidder securing the contract at a landed price of ₹6,95,000.

The contract includes five years of maintenance support alongside providing fast, transparent, and contact-free prasadam distribution. Other technology-related approvals include automated vehicle and pedestrian access control systems, temporary CCTV networks, and LED screen installations at key locations for live coverage during the festival.

Highlighting the temple's expanding international outreach, the board also approved the deputation of a six-member Vedic staff delegation to Australia. “The priests will perform the Sri Durga Malleswara Swamy Kalyanotsavam and Kumkumarchana ceremonies for devotees there,” he said.

Several civil works were also sanctioned as part of the festival preparations. These include stainless steel frames around the Sri Malleswara Swamy Temple and rain protection covers for the Shanti Homam area at an estimated cost of ₹25 lakh.

Temporary queue lines, waterproof shamiyanas, and protective sheds uphill were also approved. Hot-air ventilation for the new downhill Laddu Potu kitchen, improvements at the old Laddu Potu kitchen, and procurement of food-grade laddu trays were also sanctioned by the board.

An annual budget allocation of ₹63,01,200 was approved for outsourcing 20 drivers and five conductors to manage the temple transport operations. Temple authorities said that the approved works would be taken up immediately to ensure smooth operations for the large number of devotees expected during the festival.