AP Launches AI-powered WhatsApp Chatbot to Streamline Procurement

Vijayawada: The State Government has launched a new AI-driven WhatsApp ChatBot service aimed at simplifying the paddy procurement process for farmers, announced Civil Supplies, Food, and Consumer Affairs Minister Nadendla Manohar on Sunday.

The service allows farmers to sell their crop produce with just a few clicks on their smartphones. Farmers can initiate the process by sending a "HI" message to the designated WhatsApp number, 7337359375, which has been exclusively set up for online crop procurement.

Once the message is sent, the ChatBot will respond with an automated voice message, guiding farmers step-by-step through the process of selling their produce.

“Farmers will need to provide their Aadhar details, name, select a nearby procurement center, and choose a date and time slot for selling their paddy,” explained Manohar. “They will also specify the variety of paddy and the number of bags they wish to sell.”

Once all the required information is entered, the farmer will receive a confirmation in the form of a coupon code. This code will include the scheduled time slot, date, and procurement center, enabling the farmer to proceed with the sale smoothly.

Manohar stressed that the new WhatsApp AI service will help farmers avoid long waits at procurement centers, improving the efficiency and convenience of the process.

He also emphasized that the NDA-led government is committed to empowering farmers with technology through initiatives like the "Ease of Doing Farmer Service," which mirrors the "Ease of Doing Business" concept, to deliver better services and improve overall agricultural processes.