Summary:
The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh highlighted high-speed digital connectivity as a major driver of administrative reform and economic growth while speaking at the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation under the revamped BharatNet programme. He emphasised expanding broadband infrastructure to ensure efficient, transparent services across rural and urban areas, with plans to provide high-speed internet to every household within 18 months. The state is working to restore and expand fiber connectivity, strengthen digital governance through over 900 WhatsApp-based public services, secure land records using blockchain, and advance healthcare and education through AI-powered applications. He added that Andhra Pradesh aims to become a hub for telecom and technology innovation, leveraging strong digital infrastructure to support inclusive development and job creation.
According to the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, high-speed digital connectivity will be a key driver of administrative reforms and economic development throughout the state. Addressing the gathering at the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) under the revised BharatNet programme, he stressed the importance of strengthening broadband infrastructure to enhance service delivery in both rural and urban regions.
He stated that digital connectivity forms the backbone of a Viksit Bharat and noted that increased bandwidth would facilitate quicker, more transparent, and efficient services for every household. With assistance from the central government, the state intends to extend high-speed internet access to all homes within the next one and a half years under the upgraded BharatNet framework, he said.
The Chief Minister also mentioned that Andhra Pradesh FiberNet had previously connected nearly one million households. However, this figure reportedly declined to 3.8 lakh between 2019 and 2024 due to alleged mismanagement. He added that steps are currently being taken to restore and broaden coverage.
He further pointed out that over 900 government services are now accessible through WhatsApp. Pattadar passbooks, or land ownership documents, are being issued using secure printing technology, while land records are safeguarded through blockchain systems. He explained that the integration of technology will also advance the Sanjeevani health record digitisation initiative and enhance the delivery of education and healthcare services through applications powered by artificial intelligence (AI).
Additionally, he said that AI would strengthen governance, healthcare, and education sectors while generating employment opportunities rather than eliminating jobs. He affirmed that Andhra Pradesh is ready to serve as a testing ground for telecom and technological innovations, supported by a robust digital infrastructure that will underpin the state’s overall development.
