Andhra Pradesh Launches 'Mana Mitra' - WhatsApp Governance Initiative
| Summary/Static | Details |
|---|---|
| Why in the news? | WhatsApp-Based 'Mana Mitra' to Offer 161 Govt Services in Andhra |
| Initiative Name | Mana Mitra - WhatsApp Governance |
| Launched By | Nara Lokesh, Minister for IT, Electronics & RTG |
| Launch Date | February 1, 2025 |
| Launch Location | Undavalli, Amaravati |
| Official WhatsApp Number | 9552300009 |
| Total Services (Phase 1) | 161 public services |
| Total Services (Phase 2) | 360 additional services |
| Departments Involved | 36 government departments |
| Key Technologies Used | WhatsApp, QR Code verification, AI, Blockchain (future) |
| Access Method | Citizens can type "Hi" on WhatsApp |
| Future Upgrades | AI-powered chatbot, voice-based services, real-time data integration |
| Technical Collaboration | MoU signed with Meta on October 22, 2024 |
| Key Figures Involved | Ravi Garg (WhatsApp India Head), Sandhya Devanathan (Meta India VP) |
| Inspiration | Nara Lokesh's 3,132-km Yuva Galam padayatra |