Paita Lagi ritual

Puri Jagannath Temple Enhances Sevayat Welfare, Introduces ATM Donation System

The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has announced significant welfare measures for sevayats, alongside a modernised donation system for devotees.

Starting January 2026, the monthly pension for senior sevayats will increase from Rs 4,000 to Rs 5,000. In addition, marriage assistance for sevayats’ daughters has been raised from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.5 lakh.

These initiatives aim to strengthen financial support for sevayat families and acknowledge their dedicated service to the temple.

In a move to simplify contributions, SJTA is working with banking authorities to introduce an ATM‑based donation system.

Devotees withdrawing cash in Puri will receive a prompt before their receipt is printed, asking if they wish to donate. If they agree, the donation will be deducted directly from their card, ensuring transparency and convenience.

Officials emphasised that these measures reflect the temple’s commitment to both sevayat welfare and modernisation of donation practices.

The initiatives will take effect from January 2026, marking a new chapter in temple administration and community engagement.