AP to provide QR code-based certificates

Minister for IT and HRD Nara Lokesh announced plans to introduce QR code-based certificates, aiming to deliver government services to citizens in just ten seconds. He stated that once a certificate is issued through a QR code, it remains permanently accessible, eliminating the need for repeated visits to revenue offices.

As part of the initiative, the state is also exploring legal amendments to streamline the process further. During a short discussion in the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Tuesday, Lokesh highlighted the State's progress in digital governance, citing the legacy of NTR in abolishing the Patel Patwari system and CM Chandrababu Naidu’s role in transforming civil services.

He noted that 200 civic services are currently accessible via WhatsApp, branded as "Mana Mitra," and the government plans to expand this to 300 services by the end of the month. Lokesh emphasized the integration of artificial intelligence to enhance WhatsApp governance, including voice-based services. He mentioned that services such as paying revenue certificates, property taxes, and obtaining new electricity connections will soon be available through WhatsApp.

Additionally, 73 endowment department services are already offered, and efforts are underway to include Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) services. So far, 51 lakh transactions have been processed via WhatsApp, contributing significantly to the 1.5 crore digital transactions handled by the government. Addressing concerns about data security, Lokesh assured that all information is fully encrypted and compliant with IT Act regulations.

He confirmed that WhatsApp Governance services will complement existing Meeseva centers rather than replace them, giving citizens multiple access points for government services. The minister reiterated the government's commitment to efficiency, ensuring that services are not just office-based but seamlessly accessible to citizens.

Additionally, the government is working to link grain procurement services to this digital platform, ensuring seamless access to benefits for farmers. CM Chandrababu Naidu’s vision, he said, is to position Andhra Pradesh at the forefront of digital governance in the country.