AP app fails to speak

When Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu announced ‘Andhra Pradesh Speaks’, an android application that allows public and Internet literates to directly express their views on the functioning of the State Government in February, the youth had high expectations on the initiative as it is in fact an open platform for them to get their needs addressed.

The Chief Minister also offered support and incentives to young entrepreneurs and college students who would come up with innovative ideas and novel mobile applications for the benefit of society. They saw it as an opportunity to showcase their talent.

Through his twitter account, Naidu made it clear that his pro-people government would take into account constructive suggestions from public. “We are a listening government. Speak to us through our app AP Speaks with your ideas and feedback,’’ he tweeted.

The initiative received acclaims from all sections of people on social media. Facebook, on its official page, lauded the Chief Minister for his ‘AP Speaks’ initiative and credited it as the only app of its kind by any government. Discussions were invited on socially relevant topics like primary and higher education, civic amenities, tourism, corruption and unemployment. But, the first-of-its-kind app did not have many takers.

It was downloaded by not more than 1,000 people. Its social network official page has got 350 likes that is way behind the safety and service apps in the number of downloads recorded. Execution has proved to be a major drawback. In the absence of any acknowledgement from a person of authority to the points raised and suggestions made by the public, the app has lost its sheen and purpose.

A few posts

A follower of the page Raghu Ram: “AP Bifurcation Act, is it possible for TDP, BJP and NDA parties? Is it a sin electing you? How Andhra Pradesh’s requirements are justified?’’

Chinthala Chandrasekhar Reddy: “Very happy for the platform you’ve provided to share our ideas for a prosperous AP. The main problem is the accessibility and credibility of the government officials to the people.’’ Gangadhara Naidu Mulakala: “Sir, what do u plan for eradicating unemployment in AP?’’

By Ch Sowmya Sruthi