WhatsApp-Based ‘Mana Mitra’ to Offer 161 Govt Services in Andhra

The Andhra Pradesh government has launched ‘Mana Mitra’, a first-of-its-kind WhatsApp Governance initiative, making 161 civil services accessible via WhatsApp. Minister for IT, Electronics & Communication, and Real-Time Governance (RTG) Nara Lokesh launched the service in Amaravati, emphasizing its goal of bringing government services directly to the people. The initiative, developed in partnership with Meta, is set to expand further, integrating blockchain and AI technologies for seamless digital governance.

Key Highlights of ‘Mana Mitra’

First of its kind Whatsapp Governance in India

• Andhra Pradesh becomes the first state in the world to introduce governance services via WhatsApp.
• Citizens can access 161 public services through the official WhatsApp number 9552300009.

Launch and Vision

• Launched by Nara Lokesh on February 1, 2025, in Undavalli, Amaravati.
• Inspired by his 3,132-km Yuva Galam padayatra, highlighting the need for digital governance.
• Aims to make government services easily accessible at the press of a button.

Phased Implementation

• Phase 1: 161 civic services across 36 departments made available.
• Phase 2: 360 additional services to be introduced.

Key Features

• WhatsApp Governance acts as a bridge between citizens and the government.
• QR Code verification for digital certificates to prevent fake documents.
• Integration of AI and blockchain in future updates.

Technical Collaboration

• MoU signed with Meta in Delhi on October 22, 2024.
• WhatsApp India Head Ravi Garg emphasized the unique single-platform service for governance.
• Meta India VP Sandhya Devanathan committed to further enhancements.

User Access & Future Plans

• Citizens can access services by simply typing “Hi” on WhatsApp.
• Future upgrades include AI bots, voice-based services, and real-time data integration.
• The initiative aims to become an ideal governance model within six months.