Amaravati: The Andhra Pradesh government is set to revolutionize public service delivery with WhatsApp-based governance, IT and Electronics Minister Nara Lokesh announced on Tuesday. Speaking in the State Assembly, he declared that 500 services will be available through the ‘Mana Mitra’ WhatsApp platform by June 30.
Highlighting the historical evolution of digital governance in Andhra Pradesh, Lokesh recalled how former Chief Minister N.T. Rama Rao abolished the patel-patwari system to bring administration closer to the people. He also noted that Chandrababu Naidu pioneered e-Seva services, later expanded into Mee-Seva, to simplify public service access.
Lokesh emphasized that his vision for WhatsApp governance stemmed from public grievances he encountered during his padyatra. “People asked me why government services aren’t as accessible as cinema tickets or food delivery apps,” he remarked. The initiative aims to eliminate bureaucratic hurdles and bribery by providing essential services digitally.
Currently, 200 services are available via Mana Mitra. The state government is conducting global studies to enhance WhatsApp governance, expecting it to play a pivotal role in administrative reforms. Lokesh further announced plans to introduce AI-enabled services and QR code verification within 100 days, ensuring tamper-proof documentation.
Additionally, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to integrate TTD services into Mana Mitra, with discussions set to conclude within 30 days. Ration cards for tribals will also be issued via Aadhaar-seeded data integration.
Lokesh affirmed that the Chief Minister’s goal is to make Andhra Pradesh the leader in digital governance. “Government means service, not just offices,” he stated, expressing confidence that WhatsApp governance will bring transformative political and administrative reforms.
Several MLAs, including Arusumilli Radha Krishna (Tanuku), Bojjala Sudheer Reddy (Srikalahasthi), Nazeer Ahmed (Guntur-East), N. Eswar Rao (Etcherla), and Madhavi (Nellimerla), participated in the Assembly discussion on WhatsApp governance.
