CS Calls for Statewide Awareness Drive on ‘Mana Mitra WhatsApp Governance

The State Government has directed district collectors to intensify awareness campaigns on the newly introduced ‘Mana Mitra WhatsApp Governance’ initiative aimed at bringing public services closer to citizens. Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand, during a high-level review meeting held at the Secretariat in Velagapudi on Friday, emphasized that integrating technology into governance is key to eliminating public hardships and improving service delivery.

He noted that multiple government department services are now accessible through a single WhatsApp platform and instructed officials to organize district-level special drives and awareness camps to ensure every household benefits from these digital services.

Interest Waiver on Loan Repayment by April

The Chief Secretary announced that beneficiaries who availed vehicle purchase and self-employment loans under the SC Corporation through NSFDC and NSKFDC schemes will receive an interest waiver if they clear the principal amount by April. He urged eligible beneficiaries to utilize this opportunity.

Officials revealed that approximately ₹300 crore dues remain to be recovered, including ₹260 crore in principal and ₹40 crore in interest. District collectors were asked to closely monitor the recovery process.

Push for Renewable Energy Expansion

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to renewable energy, the Chief Secretary directed officials to expedite implementation of the PM Surya Ghar and PM-KUSUM schemes. Andhra Pradesh aims to complete 20 lakh rooftop solar installations as part of the national mission.

He stressed that faster approvals would help reduce electricity costs and strengthen environmental protection. Priority should also be given to solarization of agricultural feeders to ensure uninterrupted daytime power supply to farmers and reduce cultivation expenses.

The Chief Secretary further instructed officials to complete the ongoing Unified Family Survey on a war footing, stating that accurate data is crucial for transparent implementation of welfare schemes.