Tirumala: Senior IAS officer Anil Kumar Singhal on Wednesday assumed charge as the new Executive Officer of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), taking over from the outgoing EO J. Syamala Rao.
This is the second stint for Singhal at the helm of the world’s richest Hindu temple trust. He had earlier served as TTD EO during the tenure of N. Chandrababu Naidu’s government, soon after state bifurcation. Known as a soft-spoken, upright, and non-controversial bureaucrat from the Central cadre, Singhal’s reappointment has been welcomed in temple circles.
As per tradition, he first offered prayers to Lord Venkateswara at the Tirumala temple. He then took oath as ex officio Member Secretary of the TTD Board, administered by Additional EO Ch. Venkaiah Chowdary. Singhal received Vedaseervachanam, Theertha Prasadam, and a laminated portrait of Lord Venkateswara before formally assuming charge.
Speaking to reporters, the new EO expressed gratitude to the deity, his family, and the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh for the opportunity.
“It is every IAS officer’s dream to serve devotees as TTD EO. By taking charge for the second time, my responsibilities have multiplied. I thank the Hon’ble Chief Minister for entrusting me with this role,” he said.
Earlier in the day, while trekking the Alipiri footpath, Singhal interacted with pilgrims who praised the improved quality of laddu prasadam and annadanam. He noted their suggestions and assured them that further discussions would be held with officials.
“Development in TTD is a continuous process. On the Chief Minister’s instructions, we will also explore ways to increase footfall at TTD temples across the country and involve local volunteers more effectively,” he added.
Recalling his personal bond with the shrine, Singhal said he has been visiting Tirumala since 1994 as a common devotee, even experiencing darshan in queue lines and participating in Garuda Seva. “I have closely observed pilgrims’ concerns. While many reforms have been implemented, there is always scope for more initiatives to enhance the devotee experience,” he remarked.
The EO praised the dedication of TTD employees who, he said, “work tirelessly, even during odd hours, ensuring the success of every event as a team.” He thanked them for their support during his earlier three-and-a-half-year tenure and sought the same cooperation going forward.
TTD Chairman B.R. Naidu, who later met Singhal at his camp office, congratulated him on resuming charge. Additional EO Ch. Venkaiah Chowdary, JEO Veerabrahmam, and CV&SO Muralikrishna were also present on the occasion.
