Mangalore: The first convention of temple priests organised  by the Department of Religious Endow ment and District Dharmika Parishat at the Town Hall in Mangalore on December 8, Saturday was inaugurated by Kota Srinivas Poojari, State Minister for Mujrai and Ports.

Speaking on the occasion, the minister said priests play a very important role in the development of temples. He also assured all possible assistance from the government for the welfare of temples. He said the government would be providing a grant of Rs one crore to 25 selected temples with a view to help them promote tourism.

Continuing, he also stated that majority of the temples under the Mujrai department were in poor financial condition.

Kalladka Prabhaker Bhat, RSS leader, gave a lecture on the occasion. Yogish Bhat, Deputy Speaker, presided over the function. Capt Ganesh Karnik, Monappa Bhandari, MLCs. Krishnappa, Assistant Commissioner of the Religious and Endowment Department and others were present on the occasion.