Bengaluru, Feb 16 – Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced today an allocation of Rs 100 crore for the development of tourism in Anjanadri hill, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman. The decision was made during the presentation of the 2024-25 budget in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly. This move follows the earlier proposal by former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai of the BJP in the February 2023 budget, where he highlighted the need for developing Anjanadri hill and its surroundings at an estimated cost of Rs 100 crore, aiming to provide essential facilities for tourists.
Anjanadri hill, located in Koppal district near Anegundi across the Tungabhadra River, derives its name from Anjaneya, another name for Hanuman, who is said to have been born to Anjana, his mother. The place, formerly known as Kishkinda, holds immense mythological and historical significance and attracts devotees of Lord Hanuman.
Apart from being a place of spiritual pilgrimage, Anjanadri hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of sunsets, surrounding landscapes, and the flowing Tungabhadra River, which meanders through the mountains and rocks.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also announced the construction of well-equipped residential complexes to accommodate devotees traveling from Karnataka to pilgrimage destinations in Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra. Additionally, the government has undertaken construction work in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, with a budget of Rs five crore.
To improve connectivity, the Public Works Department will undertake a bridge-cum-barrage project near Chikkamanchale village in Raichur district at a cost of Rs 158 crore, providing access to Mantralaya.
In an effort to promote the development of religious sites, separate authorities will be established for Sri Ghati Subramanyaswamy temple in Bengaluru Rural district and Huligemma temple in Koppal district.
To ensure the provision of basic facilities at 34,165 ‘C’ category historical temples that do not generate income, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced the formation of a ‘vision group’ consisting of members from society and representatives from relevant departments.
The allocation of Rs 100 crore for the tourism development of Anjanadri hill is a significant step towards preserving the historical and cultural heritage of Karnataka. With these measures, the government aims to enhance the experience of tourists and devout pilgrims while boosting the tourism industry in the state.
Note: This news article has been generated based on the provided details and does not reflect any real events or statements.
