From RTGS to AI Farming: Bill Gates Impressed by Andhra Pradesh’s Digital Push

Microsoft co-founder and Gates Foundation chair Bill Gates praised Andhra Pradesh’s technology-driven governance during his visit to Amaravati, where he toured the Real Time Governance Society (RTGS) centre at the State Secretariat alongside Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu . Gates reviewed presentations on real-time service delivery, data integration, and citizen outreach systems, observing that technology is enabling transformative improvements in public services and administrative efficiency. Naidu explained that the state’s integrated Data Lake architecture links multiple government departments, enabling faster, evidence-based decision-making. Through the AWARE 2.0 platform , real-time information across numerous service categories reaches citizens, farmers, and field officials. Meanwhile, the WhatsApp Governance platform provides access to over 900 public services including certificates, grievance tracking, and welfare updates directly via mobile phones, reducing the need for physical visits to government offices.

Earlier in Undavalli, Gates received a traditional welcome and witnessed demonstrations showing how farmers are embracing modern technology while preserving agricultural traditions. Officials showcased drone-based crop monitoring and precision farming practices. The state is delivering AI-generated advisories to farmers based on crop patterns, soil health, and market prices, helping improve productivity and income stability. Naidu also highlighted the promotion of natural farming and sustainable agricultural practices aimed at reducing input costs and enhancing soil health. Gates appreciated the integration of advanced technology with grassroots agricultural practices.

Gates showed particular interest in the Sanjeevani digital health initiative , implemented in Kuppam and Chittoor districts with support from the Gates Foundation. The programme focuses on early detection and management of non-communicable diseases such as hypertension and diabetes. He enquired about follow-up care and digital health records, and Naidu explained that AI-enabled systems provide lifestyle guidance while ensuring continuity of care. Gates welcomed the initiative and suggested expanding affordable diagnostic services for pregnant women and rural communities to strengthen preventive healthcare.

Responding to queries on land governance, Naidu said the state is deploying blockchain technology to secure land records and prevent tampering, while QR-code verification and an AI-powered document search system enhance transparency and public access. He noted that real-time dashboards and performance indicators are used to monitor economic growth and welfare delivery.

Reflecting on his long association with Gates since their first meeting in 1997, Naidu said what began as a discussion on building an IT ecosystem has evolved into a broader mission to use innovation to improve lives at scale. He presented the Swarna Andhra 2047 vision , outlining priority sectors and potential collaboration with the Gates Foundation. Gates also reviewed Amaravati’s master plan and praised its sustainable “green-blue” design, which reserves nearly 30% of the city for water bodies and green spaces. Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan , IT Minister Nara Lokesh , Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand , and senior officials participated in the programme.