Digital Kiosk Scheme in Andhra Pradesh

The Digital kiosk scheme in Andhra Pradesh, officially known as Digi-Lakshmi, was launched on June 30, 2025, by the Andhra Pradesh government. This initiative is aimed at empowering urban women, especially those from Self-Help Groups (SHGs), by helping them set up and run digital service kiosks across the state.

The scheme is a key part of the broader One Family One Entrepreneur initiative in Andhra Pradesh, which focuses on promoting women entrepreneurship, digital literacy, and urban development. For SSC and other competitive exam aspirants, understanding the details of this scheme is essential for current affairs preparation.

What Is the Digital Kiosk Scheme Andhra Pradesh (Digi-Lakshmi)?

The Digital Kiosk scheme in Andhra Pradesh involves the establishment of 9,034 Common Service Centres (CSCs) in all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs). Each kiosk, also known as an ATOM Kiosk, will be operated by a woman entrepreneur from an SHG.

These kiosks will deliver more than 250 government and public services, including:

• Bill payments

• Aadhaar and certificate services

• Welfare scheme applications

• Local governance support

The goal is to combine digital access with economic empowerment, making the Digital Kiosk scheme in Andhra Pradesh a vital component of the state’s urban digitization efforts.

Eligibility Criteria for Women to Operate Kiosks

To qualify for the Digi-Lakshmi digital kiosk scheme, women must meet the following requirements:

• Age between 21 and 40 years

• Married and settled in the same ULB area

• Active SHG membership for at least 3 years

• Graduate degree with basic computer literacy

• Willingness to undergo MEPMA digital training

The scheme specifically supports urban women by encouraging self-employment and small business growth through digital service delivery.

Training and Support by MEPMA

The Mission for Elimination of Poverty in Municipal Areas (MEPMA) is the implementing agency for the Digital Kiosk scheme in Andhra Pradesh. It will provide:

• Technical training for service operations

• Business and financial literacy sessions

• On-ground support for setup and maintenance

This MEPMA scheme ensures that SHG women are equipped to manage kiosks efficiently and become sustainable digital entrepreneurs.

Loan and Financial Assistance

Under the Digital Kiosk scheme in Andhra Pradesh, each eligible woman can access collateral-free loans between ₹2 lakh to ₹2.5 lakh for setting up the kiosk. This financial aid for women kiosk entrepreneurs in AP is meant to cover:

• Equipment (computers, printers, biometric devices)

• Internet connectivity

• Furniture and maintenance tools

This financial support enables SHG women to become part of the Andhra Pradesh digital jobs ecosystem.

Government Oversight and Implementation

The Digital Kiosk scheme in Andhra Pradesh is being executed by the Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MA&UD) Department. The scheme was notified through G.O. MS. No. 117, signed by Principal Secretary S. Suresh Kumar.

The Mission Director of MEPMA is responsible for monitoring kiosk performance and ensuring proper delivery of public services.

How to Apply for Digi-Lakshmi in Andhra Pradesh?

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for Digi-Lakshmi in Andhra Pradesh:

1. Ensure eligibility as a SHG woman member

2. Visit the nearest ULB office or MEPMA center

3. Submit application forms and documents

4. Attend orientation and complete digital training

5. Apply for financial assistance and kiosk setup approval

This process is designed to make digital entrepreneurship accessible and streamlined for urban poor women.

Impact of the Digital Kiosk Scheme, Andhra Pradesh

The Digital Kiosk scheme in Andhra Pradesh delivers long-term social and economic benefits:

• Empowers urban women with stable income sources

• Expands digital services in Andhra to all ULBs

• Promotes self-reliance among SHG members

• Increases access to government jobs and welfare services

• Fosters local digital ecosystems in cities and towns

It also contributes to AP development through sustainable entrepreneurship and better access to public services.

SSC Exam Relevance: What You Need to Know

For SSC aspirants, the Digital Kiosk scheme of Andhra Pradesh may feature in:

• Current Affairs MCQs

• Government Schemes – State Section

• Essay/Descriptive Writing on Women's Empowerment

Final Thoughts

The Digital Kiosk scheme in Andhra Pradesh is a forward-looking initiative designed to bridge the digital divide while uplifting SHG women economically. By setting up women-run CSC centres in Andhra Pradesh, the government is creating a strong foundation for inclusive digital growth and socioeconomic transformation.

With its combination of financial aid, government support, and public-private participation, this scheme sets a benchmark for urban development and women-led entrepreneurship in India.