Medaram, September 15: Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy visited the Sammakka-Saralamma temples at Medaram on Tuesday and announced the government’s commitment to redevelop the historic shrines with durable stone structures, inspired by the architectural grandeur of the Ramappa temple. Calling it his privilege to oversee the reconstruction of the sacred gaddelu (temple platforms), the CM emphasized that true development means improving the living standards of tribal communities, not just building concrete structures.

Highlighting the government’s tribal welfare initiatives, the CM said that an additional 22,000 Indiramma houses have been sanctioned for tribals. He criticized past governments for neglecting tribal needs and said the present administration is determined to correct historic injustices. He also pointed out that while thousands of crores are sanctioned for Kumbh Mela in Uttar Pradesh, the Medaram Maha Jatara — one of the largest tribal festivals in the world — deserves similar attention from the Centre.

Revanth Reddy unveiled designs for the temple expansion, directing officials to ensure that all works are completed within 100 days, well before the upcoming Maha Jatara. Plans include expansion of the gaddelu, improved temple infrastructure, and water conservation in the Jampanna vagu stream. The CM stressed that the new stone structures will endure for centuries, preserving the glory of Sammakka and Saralamma for future generations.

Earlier, CM Revanth Reddy offered 68 kilograms of gold to the deities as a token of devotion. He also held a review with priests, tribal representatives, and officials, taking their suggestions into account before finalizing the redevelopment plan. Ministers Seethakka, Konda Surekha, Adluri Laxman, and Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy accompanied the CM during the visit.