Shimla, April 7
The Shimla district administration is set to introduce minimum standards for food distribution (bhandaras) in temples to ensure quality and uniformity. Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap has directed all SDMs to identify a basic menu and standardize arrangements for bhandaras organized in temples under their respective jurisdictions. Only after fixing these minimum dishes will the administration determine the rates for food distribution programs.
The decision aims to streamline temple feasts, maintain hygiene and consistency, and ensure devotees receive a standard quality of food across all temples in the district.
80% Work Completed on Temple Website
In a review meeting held on Tuesday, the Deputy Commissioner assessed the progress of the comprehensive temple website being developed for Shimla district. Officials informed that nearly 80 percent of the work has been completed.
The upcoming digital platform will offer devotees a wide range of online services, including:
Virtual darshan
Online booking for bhandara slots
Donation facilities
Live Aarti streaming
Accommodation/inn booking
In the first phase, three main temples—Mata Tara Devi Temple, Sankat Mochan Temple, and Jakhu Temple—will be integrated into the portal. Other temples across the district will be added in subsequent phases.
Transparency and Easy Access to Information
The DC emphasized that the website will enhance transparency and accessibility, enabling devotees to get complete information about temples, including:
Historical and cultural background
Maps and photographs
Aarti schedules
Daily updates on bhandaras
Notably, devotees will now be able to check who is organizing a bhandara and on which date with a single click, a facilities that was not available earlier.
The Himachal Pradesh State Industrial Development Corporation Limited has been tasked with the website development and has been issued necessary guidelines.
AC to DC Devi Chand Thakur was also present during the meeting.
