In a forward-looking move to strengthen real-time, citizen-centric governance, the Real-Time Governance Society (RTGS) of Andhra Pradesh signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ISRO’s Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SHAR) at Sriharikota on Monday.
The agreement was signed in the presence of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, SHAR Director A. Rajarajan, and RTGS CEO Prakhar Jain.
Describing the collaboration as a “landmark step,” CM Naidu said the partnership will enable the AWARE platform to leverage satellite imagery and scientific insights across 42 applications, including agriculture, disaster management, weather forecasting, and urban planning.
“This collaboration will enhance the AWARE platform with satellite imagery and scientific inputs, empowering real-time governance,” Naidu posted on X.
The AWARE platform—short for Andhra Pradesh Weather Forecasting and Early Warning Research Centre—already integrates data from satellites, drones, IoT sensors, mobile feeds, and CCTV networks. It delivers real-time alerts and advisories to both government officials and citizens via SMS, WhatsApp, media, and social media platforms. This MoU signals a step change in how Andhra Pradesh uses emerging technologies for predictive governance and rapid response.
Earlier this year, the state government also launched “Mana Mitra,” a WhatsApp-based governance platform offering hassle-free access to citizen services. The platform, which began with 161 services in January, was expanded to 200 services by March, streamlining public service delivery through a familiar digital interface.
In a separate development, Chief Minister Naidu met with a NASSCOM delegation led by President Rajesh Nambiar, along with senior executives Srikanth Srinivasan and Siva Prasad Polimetla, to explore strategies to transform Andhra Pradesh into a global tech hub.
Key initiatives discussed during the meeting included:
- AI, Quantum & GovTech Innovation Sandbox for real-world pilot testing
- A 100K Tech Apprentice Program to bridge the talent gap
- A Coastal Cloud & Cyber Corridor for sustainable digital infrastructure
- The Andhra for Bharat initiative to scale rural-tech innovations nationally
“Andhra Pradesh offers a compelling alternative to saturated tech hubs with its untapped talent and strategic location,” Naidu noted.
The double-pronged focus on space technology and tech ecosystem development positions Andhra Pradesh as a pioneer in data-driven governance and innovation-led growth.