What is the significance of Odisha's new WhatsApp chatbot 'Ama Sathi'?
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Synopsis
Odisha's latest initiative, the 'Ama Sathi' WhatsApp chatbot, empowers citizens by providing streamlined access to over 100 essential public services. This innovative platform signifies a pivotal shift towards enhancing governance and service delivery.
Key Takeaways
- 'Ama Sathi' offers access to over 100 essential services.
- Available in both Odia and English.
- Single WhatsApp number: 9437292000.
- Empowers citizens by simplifying access to public services.
- Promotes transparency and accountability in governance.
Bhubaneswar, Sep 26 (NationPress) The Odisha Government has introduced 'Ama Sathi', a comprehensive WhatsApp chatbot designed to facilitate easy access to more than 100 vital public services for its citizens.
After Andhra Pradesh, Odisha is the second state in India to collaborate with Meta for the rollout of 'Ama Sathi', a WhatsApp chatbot dedicated to citizen services. Developed by the Centre for Modernising Government Initiative (CMGI) in partnership with Meta India, this unified chatbot merges over 120 citizen services into a single WhatsApp number.
Citizens can now conveniently access essential services such as various certificates—including Residence and Income Certificates—licenses like Driving and Fertiliser Licenses, along with incentive schemes such as benefits for inter-caste marriages and the National Family Benefit Scheme.
The Chief Secretary of Odisha, Manoj Ahuja, inaugurated this initiative, marking a significant advancement in enhancing last-mile access to vital public services.
“With this chatbot, citizens can easily obtain critical government services such as Birth and Income Certificates, apply for driving and fertiliser licences, and access incentives like the National Family Benefits Scheme, all via a single WhatsApp number,” stated the government in a press release on Friday.
Available in both Odia and English, the chatbot can be reached through WhatsApp number 9437292000 and comes equipped with voice capabilities. It serves as a one-stop digital assistant, making essential public services readily accessible to citizens.
“This chatbot allows individuals to conveniently raise and track public grievances, access housing and urban development resources, and engage with general administration services. It also provides information related to education, agriculture, and horticulture, ensuring timely support for farmers and students alike. Citizens in Odisha can also connect with police services, check land records, and access revenue details,” the official statement further elaborated.
On the same day, CS Ahuja launched a dynamic dashboard for the Odisha Right to Public Services Act's Central Monitoring System (CMS).
During the event, Ahuja emphasized, "The Government of Odisha is dedicated to providing seamless public services, ensuring every citizen experiences convenience and efficiency at the last mile. This commitment is reflected in our investment in technology and training, aimed at removing bureaucratic hurdles and improving overall accessibility. With the launch of Ama Sathi in partnership with Meta, Odisha is taking a transformative step towards truly citizen-centric governance.”
He also mentioned that accessing various public services has long been a fragmented and cumbersome process for citizens. "This unified WhatsApp platform will streamline processes, eliminate barriers, and empower every citizen, from urban centers to the most remote areas of the state, to easily and efficiently access essential services. Initiatives like this highlight Odisha’s vision of utilizing technology for transparent, accountable, and inclusive governance, ensuring public service delivery is not just a function, but a seamless experience for all,” Ahuja noted.
Point of View
The launch of 'Ama Sathi' is a commendable step towards enhancing citizen engagement and service delivery in Odisha. By integrating technology into public services, the Odisha government not only improves accessibility but also sets an example for other states. This initiative aligns with the growing trend of digital governance, emphasizing the importance of efficient and inclusive service delivery.
NationPress
26/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What services can be accessed through the 'Ama Sathi' chatbot?
The 'Ama Sathi' chatbot provides access to over 120 citizen services, including essential certificates like Residence and Income Certificates, various licenses, and incentive schemes.
In which languages is the chatbot available?
The 'Ama Sathi' chatbot is available in both Odia and English.
How can citizens access the chatbot?
Citizens can connect with the 'Ama Sathi' chatbot using the WhatsApp number 9437292000.
Who launched the 'Ama Sathi' initiative?
The initiative was launched by the Chief Secretary of Odisha, Manoj Ahuja.
What is the purpose of the 'Ama Sathi' chatbot?
The purpose of the 'Ama Sathi' chatbot is to simplify access to public services and improve governance by providing a unified digital platform for citizens.
