TTD Debates AI Integration for Darshan Process: A Divided Opinion Unfolds

A debate has unfolded at Tirumala temple over the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the darshan process. Former Chief Secretary L.V. Subramanyam opposes the idea, citing structural constraints and adherence to Agama sastras. However, the current TTD Board, led by Chairman B.R. Naidu, is pushing for AI adoption to reduce waiting times. Naidu defends the proposal, citing global trends and the potential for innovative solutions, despite Subramanyam's concerns.

A contentious debate has unfolded at the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Trust Board over the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the darshan process. The proposal, spearheaded by the current TTD Board led by Chairman B.R. Naidu, aims to reduce waiting times for devotees visiting the temple of Lord Venkateswara. However, the idea has sparked opposition from former Chief Secretary L.V. Subramanyam, who served as the Executive Officer of the TTD [1].

Subramanyam expressed reservations about implementing AI in the darshan process, citing structural constraints and adherence to Agama sastras. He argued that past Trust boards and Executive Officers had similarly explored advanced technologies but were forced to abandon these endeavors due to inherent limitations within the temple [1].

In contrast, the current TTD Board is resolute in its pursuit to mitigate waiting times and facilitate devotees’ darshan within a mere hour or two. The Board is engaged in substantive deliberations with prominent IT conglomerates like Google and TCS to explore AI-driven solutions [1].

Naidu defended the proposal, citing global trends towards AI adoption and the potential for innovative solutions. He emphasized that the primary objective is not only to curtail waiting hours but also to provide pilgrims with advance information of their darshan timing, enabling them to plan other temple visits more effectively [1].

While Subramanyam and senior officials concur with the assessment that previous administrators faced structural limitations and adherence to Agama sastras, another section of employees supports Naidu’s proposal. They argue that even if the management does not succeed in its primary objective, it may still yield innovative methods to substantially reduce waiting times [1].

The debate highlights the tension between tradition and innovation, with the TTD Board pushing for technological advancements to improve the darshan experience while adhering to the temple's structural and religious constraints.

References:
[1] https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/artificial-intelligence-in-tirumala-darshan-a-contentious-debate-unfolds/article69893036.ece