Free Power For Ganesh, Durga Pandals Across AP
In a similar move, the government has also decided that Durga Devi pandals erected during the upcoming Vijayadashami celebrations would be extended the same benefit of free electricity.
VIJAYAWADA: In a festive gesture, the Andhra Pradesh government has decided to provide free electricity to Ganesh pandals across the state during the Vinayaka Chavithi celebrations. The decision came after education minister Nara Lokesh responded to requests from several Ganesh Utsav committees.
In a similar move, the government has also decided that Durga Devi pandals erected during the upcoming Vijayadashami celebrations would be extended the same benefit of free electricity.
Nearly 15,000 Ganesh idols are being installed this year in various towns and villages. Providing free power to the pandals would cost the state exchequer around Rs 25 crore.
Officials said Lokesh took up the matter with chief minister Chandrababu Naidu and energy minister Gottipati Ravikumar. The CM responded positively. The government would release a special GO to this effect soon.
