Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanams To Introduce Facial Recognition Technology From March 1

The goal of facial recognition technology is to enhance transparency in tokenless darshan and accommodation allotment systems.

The Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanams (TTD) has decided to implement facial recognition technology (FRT) on an experimental basis at Srivari Sarvadarshanam for Laddu Prasadam distribution, rooms allotment, and refund payments counter beginning from March 1, 2023.

The goal of FRT is to enhance transparency in tokenless darshan and accommodation allotment systems, providing more effective services to the multitude of visiting pilgrims.

This new technology will be used to prevent a person from procuring more tokens in the Sarva Darshan Complex and also at the caution deposit refund counters.

Earlier, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) authorities had ordered a probe into the alleged drone video of the temple that was making the rounds on social media platforms. According to an IANS report, TTD, which manages the affairs of Sri Venkateswara temple atop Tirumala, has taken note of the video posted by a person from Hyderabad.

The TTD officials have virtually ruled out the possibility of the drone camera being used. They believe that the video may have been shot using still photography. There is also the possibility of the video being obtained from Google.

"A video of Tirumala temple that is making the rounds on social media platforms as having been taken through a drone camera is baseless. However, it will be sent to the forensic lab for verification," said TTD Chief Vigilance and Security Officer (CVSO) Narasimha Kishore, as quoted by IANS.

He said the entire Tirumala is under the eagle eye of hi-fi vigilance and security, and it is not possible to capture the video through a drone camera.

As per Agama Shastra rules, the flying of aircraft or drones over the hill shrine is prohibited. The video in question was said to have been uploaded by a man from Hyderabad in November last year on his Instagram account. However, it went viral over the last couple of days, forcing the TTD authorities to take note of the same and react. Following this development, the Instagram user has taken down the video.