In a significant move to enhance both security and the overall pilgrimage experience, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams ( TTD) board has announced the implementation of anti-drone technology and artificial intelligence (AI)-based systems, including facial recognition technology, at the world-renowned Tirumala Temple.
TTD Executive Officer J Syamala Rao stated that the temple administration plans to implement these advanced technologies to verify genuine devotees, thereby facilitating a seamless darshan experience, preventing impersonation and fraudulent activities, and streamlining services such as accommodation, access control, and other key operations.
“In our efforts to enhance the overall pilgrimage experience, TTD is committed to embracing the latest technological advancements available in the market, including Artificial Intelligence,” Rao noted in an official press release.
Anti-drone technology for enhanced security
The anti-drone system will be used to detect, track, and neutralise unauthorised unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) flying in and around the Tirumala temple premises. This initiative is designed to prevent potential security threats, unauthorised photography, and breaches of privacy in the sacred zone.
According to a senior TTD official, “The introduction of anti-drone technology is a proactive measure to secure the temple from any airborne threats. Given the increasing availability and misuse of drones, it has become essential to safeguard the temple and the millions of devotees who visit it.”
AI and facial recognition for seamless pilgrimage
The TTD is also preparing to roll out AI-driven surveillance and facial recognition systems at key entry and exit points, as well as within the temple complex. These tools are expected to:
“By employing AI and facial recognition, we aim to not only increase security but also reduce the burden on manual verification processes. Devotees can expect a safer, faster, and more comfortable darshan experience,” added the official.
Data privacy measures
Addressing potential concerns about data privacy, the TTD has assured that all technologies will be implemented in accordance with Indian data protection laws. Personal data collected during the facial recognition process will be encrypted and stored securely, with strict access controls.
A tech-enabled future for pilgrimage
The Tirumala temple, one of the most visited religious sites in the world, attracts lakhs of devotees daily. With these technological advancements, the TTD is looking to balance tradition with innovation, ensuring that pilgrims can focus on their spiritual journey while benefitting from modern conveniences.
The implementation is expected to begin in phases over the next few months, with pilot testing already underway in select areas.
TTD Executive Officer J Syamala Rao stated that the temple administration plans to implement these advanced technologies to verify genuine devotees, thereby facilitating a seamless darshan experience, preventing impersonation and fraudulent activities, and streamlining services such as accommodation, access control, and other key operations.
“In our efforts to enhance the overall pilgrimage experience, TTD is committed to embracing the latest technological advancements available in the market, including Artificial Intelligence,” Rao noted in an official press release.
Anti-drone technology for enhanced security
The anti-drone system will be used to detect, track, and neutralise unauthorised unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) flying in and around the Tirumala temple premises. This initiative is designed to prevent potential security threats, unauthorised photography, and breaches of privacy in the sacred zone.
According to a senior TTD official, “The introduction of anti-drone technology is a proactive measure to secure the temple from any airborne threats. Given the increasing availability and misuse of drones, it has become essential to safeguard the temple and the millions of devotees who visit it.”
AI and facial recognition for seamless pilgrimage
The TTD is also preparing to roll out AI-driven surveillance and facial recognition systems at key entry and exit points, as well as within the temple complex. These tools are expected to:
- Speed up identity verification
- Help locate lost persons
- Track VIP and general pilgrim movement
- Identify suspicious behaviour or individuals
“By employing AI and facial recognition, we aim to not only increase security but also reduce the burden on manual verification processes. Devotees can expect a safer, faster, and more comfortable darshan experience,” added the official.
Data privacy measures
Addressing potential concerns about data privacy, the TTD has assured that all technologies will be implemented in accordance with Indian data protection laws. Personal data collected during the facial recognition process will be encrypted and stored securely, with strict access controls.
A tech-enabled future for pilgrimage
The Tirumala temple, one of the most visited religious sites in the world, attracts lakhs of devotees daily. With these technological advancements, the TTD is looking to balance tradition with innovation, ensuring that pilgrims can focus on their spiritual journey while benefitting from modern conveniences.
The implementation is expected to begin in phases over the next few months, with pilot testing already underway in select areas.
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