More WhatsApp-based public services by June, says Andhra Pradesh IT Minister Lokesh

More WhatsApp-based public services by June, says Andhra Pradesh IT Minister Lokesh. ‘Mana Mitra’ will offer 500 services, up from existing 200, Lokesh informs the Legislative Assembly. The government also plans to introduce AI-enabled voice services in one hundred days.

The Government of Andhra Pradesh will be offering 500 public services, up from 200 at present, through its WhatsApp-based governance initiative, ‘Mana Mitra’, by June 30.

Minister for IT Nara Lokesh highlighted the ambitious project during a short discussion in the Legislative Assembly on Tuesday.

Drawing inspiration from international models such as Singapore’s Smart Nation Initiative and Estonia’s digital governance, Mr. Lokesh said that ‘Mana Mitra’ aimed at eliminating bureaucratic hurdles and bringing government services directly to the citizens’ fingertips.

Mr. Lokesh said the government would introduce AI-enabled voice services in the next one hundred days, ensuring seamless access to essential services.

“Just as people can order food, taxis, and movie tickets at the click of a button, they should be able to access government services effortlessly,” he said.

‘Mana Mitra’ currently offers 200 services, including revenue certificates, property tax payments, and grievance redressal. By the end of March, this number will rise to 300, with AI chatbots further enhancing accessibility. The initiative aims at integrating services under three categories — direct citizen services, human-assisted services, and policy reforms.

One of the most significant reforms was the shift towards permanent digital documents, reducing the need for repeated office visits.