Odisha: Puri Jagannath Temple to launch its own FM Radio Channel, Ratna Bhandar doors to be gold-plated

The Puri Jagannath Temple will soon launch its own FM radio channel, announced Arabinda Padhee, Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), following a key managing committee meeting held in Puri . The meeting addressed various important matters, including improving devotee experience through streamlined darshan and enhancing welfare initiatives for servitors

“The managing committee of the Jagannath Temple has approved a budget of Rs 410 crore for the 2024-25 financial year, a significant increase of Rs 118.17 crore from the previous year’s budget. ” informed  Shri Arabinda Padhee

The SJTA chief administrator announced that the managing committee meeting prioritized devotee experience at Puri Srimandir, focusing on seamless and hassle-free darshan. The committee has tasked the Collector, SP, and SJTA chief administrator to engage in discussions with servitors. Additionally, new measures have been approved, including removing almirahs and installing air conditioning in the Nata Mandap. These initiatives aim to enhance the overall experience for devotees visiting the temple

New provisions are being made to ensure a comfortable and accessible experience for all devotees at Puri Srimandir, including:  designated rows for women and children,dSpecial arrangements for Divyangs (devotees with disabilities) and priority access for elderly devotees.These provisions will be implemented after thorough consultation with all stakeholders, ensuring a smooth and inclusive experience for all visitors.

The Managing Committee also  addressed the welfare of sevayats (temple servitors) today, discussing various benefits including  health insurance,financial assistance, scholarships for children of sevayat families.

According to the SJTA chief administrator, a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) will be established soon to implement these initiatives, ensuring the well-being and support of the sevayat community.

Among other major decisions taken, the Managing Committee has also approved the proposal for gold-plating of the Ratna Bhandar doors. Ratna Bhandar is the place where all the valuables, and ornaments of the Holy Trinity are kept. Following the completion of essential repair works by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the gold-plating process will commence, encompassing both the inner and outer chamber gates of the Ratna Bhandar