Telangana’s Revenue and Housing Minister, Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy, announced a significant investment of ₹251 crore from the State government towards the enhancement and development of the revered Medaram Sammakka Saralamma tribal shrine. This substantial allocation comes as the shrine prepares to host its biennial jatara, a grand festival anticipated to attract more than one crore devotees.
This monumental event, widely recognized as Asia’s largest tribal fair, is scheduled to take place from January 28 to 31, 2026, in the spiritual heart of Medaram village, located within the SS Tadvai mandal of Mulugu district.
Minister Reddy, who also serves as the in-charge for the combined Warangal district, conducted a comprehensive inspection of the ongoing development projects at Medaram. He was accompanied by local MLA and fellow minister Danasari Anasuya (also known as Seethakka), who heads the Panchayat Raj and Rural Development portfolio. Following their site visit on Monday, they convened a crucial review meeting with various officials to assess progress and address any challenges.
During a subsequent interaction with the media, Mr. Srinivasa Reddy highlighted that Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy had recently approved an additional ₹101 crore for the temple’s development, supplementing the initial sanction of ₹150 crore. He confirmed that tenders for projects valued at ₹71 crore have already been floated. The Minister provided assurance that all allocated funds would be used judiciously and efficiently, outlining a phased approach to the shrine’s overall development. He also issued clear directives to Collector T.S. Divakara and other responsible officials, urging them to ensure the completion of all works within a stringent 50-day timeframe, emphasizing the need for seamless execution.
Addressing persistent questions regarding controversies surrounding the allocation of development contracts, Minister Reddy firmly stated, “My integrity is well-known. I have no personal need for contracts worth ₹70 crore.” He further dismissed reports of complaints lodged against him with the party high command, asserting that “we are diligently carrying out all development work in strict accordance with the guidelines and suggestions provided by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy.”