Tirumala, June 5, 2026: Union Minister for Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal praised the use of Artificial Intelligence and advanced technology in improving pilgrim services at Tirumala during his visit to the sacred hill shrine on Friday.
After offering prayers to Lord Sri Venkateswara Swamy, the Union Minister visited the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) located at the Vaikuntham Queue Complex and reviewed its functioning.
AI and Technology Enhancing Pilgrim Services
During his visit, TTD Additional EO Sri C.H. Venkaiah Chowdary explained the operational capabilities of the Integrated Command and Control Centre.
The ICCC continuously monitors:
- Room occupancy status
- Devotee movement across Tirumala
- Darshan queue lines
- Laddu prasadam distribution
- Pilgrim arrivals and crowd flow
- Accommodation availability
The system provides real-time information, helping TTD deliver transparent, efficient and pilgrim-friendly services.
Appreciation for TTD’s Technological Transformation
Speaking to the media, Sri Piyush Goyal said the ICCC is an excellent example of how Artificial Intelligence and modern technology can be used for public service and large-scale pilgrim management.
He appreciated the efforts of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and IT Minister Nara Lokesh for encouraging technology-driven governance and contributing to the state's development.
The Union Minister also thanked overseas Indian devotees who supported the initiative and congratulated TTD officials for successfully implementing the AI-based system within a short period of 100 days.
Participation in “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” Programme
Earlier in the day, Sri Piyush Goyal participated in the nationwide “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign organized on the occasion of World Environment Day 2026.
As part of the programme, he planted a sapling in his mother's name and described the experience as deeply meaningful and fulfilling.
He expressed confidence that the initiative would promote environmental awareness and encourage large-scale participation in conservation efforts across the country.
Call to Protect the Environment
The Union Minister urged children and young citizens to plant a sapling in their mother's name and nurture it throughout their lives.
He noted that the campaign, launched by Narendra Modi, aims to increase green cover and strengthen environmental protection efforts nationwide.
Annual Tirumala Visit on Birthday
Sri Piyush Goyal shared that it has become a personal tradition for him to visit Tirumala during the first week of June every year, coinciding with his birthday.
He said he seeks the blessings of Lord Sri Venkateswara Swamy for strength, wisdom and the ability to serve the nation and contribute to the welfare of people.
Dignitaries Present
The programme was attended by:
- TTD Additional EO Sri C.H. Venkaiah Chowdary
- CVSO Sri Murali Krishna
- Deputy Conservator of Forests Sri Phani Kumar Naidu
- Temple Deputy EO Sri Lokanatham
- Reception Deputy EO Sri Bhaskar
- TTD Officials and Staff
The visit highlighted Tirumala’s growing adoption of technology-driven pilgrim services while reinforcing the importance of environmental responsibility and sustainable development.
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