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Minister Nara Lokesh introduces WhatsApp governance initiative in Andhra Pradesh

Minister Nara Lokesh introduces WhatsApp governance initiative in Andhra Pradesh

Minister Nara Lokesh introduces WhatsApp governance initiative in Andhra Pradesh
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Andhra Pradesh Launches WhatsApp Governance with 161 Citizen Services

In a major digital leap, the Andhra Pradesh government has introduced WhatsApp Governance, offering 161 services to citizens through the messaging platform. This initiative, formally launched on January 30 by Minister for Information Technology and Human Resources Development Nara Lokesh, aims to make government services more accessible and efficient.

A One-Stop Solution for Citizens

With WhatsApp Governance, residents no longer need to visit government offices to obtain essential documents like Other Backward Class (OBC), Economically Weaker Section (EWS), and income certificates. Instead, they can now apply for these certificates, receive updates, and even submit grievances through a single WhatsApp number: 9552300009—branded as Mana Mitra and verified by WhatsApp.

Wide-Ranging Services

Initially, the WhatsApp-based service will provide access to departments such as:

Endowments

Energy

Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC)

Revenue

Anna Canteen

Chief Minister’s Relief Fund

Municipal Administration

More departments are expected to join soon, further expanding the scope of digital governance in the state.

First State in India to Implement WhatsApp Governance

Andhra Pradesh takes pride in being the first state in India to introduce governance via WhatsApp. Through this platform, the government can send alerts and important messages to nearly one crore citizens simultaneously. These alerts may include updates on weather conditions, electricity maintenance, public health advisories, and emergency notifications from agriculture and tourism departments.

Citizen Engagement Made Easy

Apart from receiving information, citizens can also send petitions and grievances via WhatsApp. Once a request is submitted, they receive a reference number for tracking its status. Additionally, users can:

Get details on welfare and development schemes, including eligibility and benefits.

Pay electricity bills and property taxes.

Obtain trade licenses and land records.

Access tourism-related services, such as ticket booking and accommodation reservations.

Book APSRTC bus tickets directly through WhatsApp.

A Step Towards Paperless Governance

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu emphasized that WhatsApp Governance marks a shift towards paperless and hassle-free public services. He noted that the initiative eliminates the need for citizens to physically visit government offices, making governance more transparent and efficient.

Recognizing the importance of cybersecurity, CM Naidu also directed officials to strengthen forensic and cybersecurity frameworks to prevent potential data breaches.

Partnership with Meta

This digital initiative stems from an agreement signed between the Andhra Pradesh government and Meta on October 22, 2024. The collaboration is part of the government’s broader vision to position Andhra Pradesh as a leader in digital governance and technology-driven public service delivery.

With this launch, the state government is setting a benchmark for other states in India to follow, making governance more accessible, efficient, and citizen-centric.

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