Andhra Pradesh Introduces WhatsApp Governance

Amaravati, Jan 30 (NationPress) The government of Andhra Pradesh has launched a pioneering initiative known as WhatsApp Governance, which initially provides 161 services to its residents.

Information Technology and Human Resources Development Minister Nara Lokesh inaugurated this platform, enabling citizens to access services, submit applications, and receive essential alerts from the government.

The designated WhatsApp number for these services is 9552300009, and it carries a verified status.

With this new system, there is no longer a need for citizens to visit government offices to obtain certificates such as OBC, EWS, income, and no earnings certificates.

Initially, the services available will cover departments including Endowments, Energy, APSRTC, Revenue, Anna Canteen, CMRF, and Municipal Administration. More departments will join this platform in the near future.

Andhra Pradesh is proud to be the first state in India to implement WhatsApp Governance. The government can disseminate crucial information to citizens via WhatsApp, with the capability to reach up to one crore people at once.

Government departments will use this channel to notify citizens about weather events, floods, electrical substation repairs, public health services, and urgent messages related to agriculture, tourism, and other sectors.

Residents can also submit petitions and complaints through this WhatsApp number, including their names, phone numbers, and addresses. They will receive an immediate reference number for tracking their requests.

Citizens can inquire about government welfare and development programs, obtaining details on benefits and eligibility.

Furthermore, they can pay electricity bills and property taxes through this service, as well as obtain trade licenses and land records from the Revenue Department.

As per officials, people can gather information about tourist attractions, book travel tickets, and reserve accommodations. Additionally, they can book tickets for APSRTC buses.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu emphasized that WhatsApp Governance represents a major advancement towards paperless and hassle-free public services, eliminating the necessity for citizens to visit government offices for documents and certificates.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the significance of cybersecurity measures to safeguard against data breaches and instructed officials to enhance forensic and cybersecurity frameworks.

On October 22, 2024, the state government entered into an agreement with Meta to execute this digital initiative, furthering the government’s vision to position Andhra Pradesh as a frontrunner in digital governance and technology-driven public service delivery.