Source: The Hindu
HYDERABAD, INDIA, December 5, 2001: After meeting with Mr. Ajeya Kallam, Endowments Commissioner working for the government in the state of Andhra Pradesh, priest leaders have been assured that temple wage schedules in the state are going to be revamped to account for inflation. They have also been assured that by January 15 an Archaka (Priest) Welfare Fund will be activated, retirement age will remain at 65 years, instead of being lowered. A pension plan is promised. Taking into consideration these benefits plus others listed in this article, the priest delegation has decided to wait for the government to fulfill its promises before mounting further protests.