Eshwar Khandre, Sagar Khandre and Rahim Khan inaugurated the ₹22.41 crore Papanash Temple construction project in Bidar on Saturday.
Minister for Forests, Environment and Bidar District Commissioner Eshwar Khandre on Saturday launched development work worth ₹22.41 crore at the historic Papanash temple in Bidar district, fulfilling a long-standing demand of the people of the region.
The project is under the PRASAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Outreach) program of the Union Ministry of Tourism with the involvement of Karnataka Tourism Department, District Administration and District Tourism Development Committee.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Khandre said that the construction of the Papanash temple was a long-term effort of the people of Bidar district and that the project was realized due to the sustained efforts of Lok Sabha member from Bidar Sagar Khandre.
He recalled that although the project was announced in March 2024 and the foundation stone was laid virtually by the Prime Minister, the work did not progress. “After Sagar Khandre became MP, he repeatedly met the Union tourism minister and secured the release of funds. After that, the state tourism department completed the tender process and the work has now started,” he said, adding that the project is expected to be completed within four months.
Highlighting the religious and cultural importance of the temple, the minister said thousands of devotees visited the Papanash temple, especially during Shivaratri, and the redevelopment would greatly improve the facilities for pilgrims. He also mentioned other major initiatives in the district, including plans for a 10-plus-acre Ambedkar Research Institute, revival of air services and more infrastructure projects.
The city administration and minister Haj Rahim Khan said development should rise above political considerations. He noted that his department has provided $5 million for the Papanash temple, $10 million for the development of Bidar Fort and $50 million for lake rejuvenation, besides nearly $100 million worth of road and drainage works underway in the district.
Mr. Sagar Khandre said that the funds for the construction of the temple were sanctioned under the PRASAD scheme after he personally approached the Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. “Construction of religious places should remain free of politics. Along with Papanash temple, all major religious centers in the district will be developed,” he said.
He outlined the scope of the project, which includes the construction of a fair complex, development of the lake and surrounding area, Anna Dasoha building (community catering), rest stops for pilgrims, cultural and recreational center, parking, internal roads and footpaths and a grand main entrance.
The MP said around 50,000 houses have already been sanctioned for the poor, railway work worth nearly ₹100 crore is underway in the district and he remains committed to putting Bidar on a strong development trajectory.
Published – 07 Feb 2026 19:35 IST