Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh’s Minister for Education, IT, and Electronics, Nara Lokesh, announced a groundbreaking initiative to enhance governance through WhatsApp. Speaking during a short discussion in the Assembly, Lokesh revealed plans to provide 500 government services via the “Mana Mitra” platform on WhatsApp by June 30 this year.
Lokesh highlighted that the concept of WhatsApp governance stemmed from his interactions with citizens during his padayatra (foot march). People expressed frustration over long waits and bribes at government offices, questioning why government services couldn’t be as accessible as food delivery or movie tickets. Inspired by this feedback, Lokesh envisioned a system where governance reaches the people directly, eliminating bureaucratic hurdles.
Currently, 200 services are available through Mana Mitra, with plans to expand to 300 by the end of this month. By June 30, the platform will offer 500 services, including tamper-proof QR code-enabled certificates and even exam results delivered directly to students’ phones.
Mana Mitra 2.0 and Parallel Services
Lokesh also announced the upcoming launch of Mana Mitra 2.0, featuring voice-enabled AI services within 100 days. Additionally, MeeSeva centers, which had faced challenges under the previous government, will be integrated into the IT framework to provide parallel services alongside WhatsApp and secretariat systems.
Visible and Invisible Governance
Lokesh emphasized his vision of “Visible Governance-Invisible Governance,” aiming to reduce citizens’ dependence on officials and politicians for daily needs. The initiative seeks to make basic services and certificates accessible without bureaucratic involvement.
Support for Handloom Workers
In a separate announcement, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and Minister Lokesh shared their joy over the cabinet’s decision to provide free electricity to handloom workers. This move is expected to benefit 93,000 families and over 10,000 looms. The government also plans to implement GST reimbursements for the sector.
