Nellore: Endowments minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy announced that 498 temples across the state will be developed at a cost of Rs 603 crore. Addressing a press conference after reviewing the condition of temples in Nellore district on Tuesday, he said the government’s aim is to transform temples into spiritual centres.

Ramanarayana Reddy said Nellore district will receive Rs 118.54 crore for developing 58 temples. He pointed out that in the last 15 years, only Rs 234 crore was allocated for temple development.

He credited Chief Minister NChandrababu Naidu for restoring the glory of temples and initiating reforms, including salary hikes for archakas and measures to prevent irregularities.

He urged officials to maintain transparency in temple administration, warning of strict action against those involved in wrongdoing.

The minister later met the people at his camp office, receiving representations.