₹22.41-crore Papanash Temple development works launched in Bidar

Forest, Ecology and Environment Minister and Bidar district in-charge Eshwar Khandre on Saturday inaugurated development works worth ₹22.41 crore at the historic Papanash Temple in Bidar district, fulfilling a long-pending demand of the people of the region.

The project is being taken up under the PRASAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive) scheme of the Union Ministry of Tourism, with the involvement of the Karnataka Tourism Department, district administration and the District Tourism Development Committee.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Khandre said the development of the Papanash Temple had been a long-standing aspiration of the people of Bidar district and that the project had materialised due to the sustained efforts of Lok Sabha Member from Bidar Sagar Khandre.

He recalled that although the project had been announced in March 2024 and the foundation stone was laid virtually by the Prime Minister, the work had not progressed. “After Sagar Khandre became a Member of Parliament, he repeatedly met the Union Tourism Minister and ensured the release of funds. Following this, the State Tourism Department completed the tender process, and the works have now commenced,” he said, adding that the project was expected to be completed within four months.

Highlighting the religious and cultural significance of the temple, the Minister said thousands of devotees visited Papanash Temple, especially during Shivaratri, and the redevelopment would significantly improve facilities for pilgrims. He also referred to other major initiatives in the district, including plans for an Ambedkar Research Institute over 10 acres, revival of aviation services and multiple infrastructure projects.

Municipal Administration and Haj Minister Rahim Khan said development should rise above political considerations. He noted that his department had provided ₹5 crore for the Papanash Temple, ₹10 crore for Bidar Fort development, and ₹50 crore for lake rejuvenation, apart from road and drainage works worth nearly ₹100 crore under way in the district.

Mr. Sagar Khandre said the funds for the temple development were sanctioned under the PRASAD scheme after he personally approached Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. “Development of religious places should remain free from politics. Along with Papanash Temple, all major religious centres in the district will be developed,” he said.

He outlined the scope of the project, which includes the construction of a fair complex, lake and surrounding area development, Anna Dasoha (community dining) building, pilgrims’ rest facilities, cultural and recreation centre, parking area, internal roads and pedestrian pathways, and a grand main entrance.

The MP said that about 50,000 houses had already been sanctioned for the poor, railway works worth nearly ₹100 crore were under way in the district, and that he remained committed to placing Bidar on a strong development trajectory.