The Andhra Pradesh government has recently issued crucial directives to village volunteers throughout the state, ordering them to delete WhatsApp and Telegram groups created by cluster members. These groups were initially set up to disseminate information about various welfare schemes introduced by the previous government. However, numerous complaints have surfaced, accusing volunteers of adding members to these groups without their consent and using the platforms to spread false information against the current government.
In response to these complaints, the government has mandated that all such groups and channels be deleted immediately. Volunteers are required to submit a report confirming the deletion by the end of the day. District collectors have been instructed to ensure the groups are removed in all villages. Furthermore, secretariat officials are tasked with educating the public about the fake news circulating through these social media channels.
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu recently chaired a review meeting concerning the volunteer system in the state. During this meeting, he emphasized the need for substantial reforms within the system. The government aims to utilize the services of volunteers more efficiently and is focusing on capacity building and skill development. As part of this initiative, they are gathering the educational qualifications and age details of the volunteers.
The plan is to enhance the effectiveness of volunteers by providing them with relevant training to develop their skills further. This move is part of a broader strategy to ensure that volunteers can contribute more effectively to the state’s welfare programs.
