CM Launches MEPMA Mana Mitra App, Plans Araku Coffee Outlets On Starbucks Model
: Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday reiterated the government’s strong commitment towards women’s empowerment and economic advancement.
He held a review meeting with officials of SERP (rural poverty eradication association) and MEPMA (mission of poverty eradication in municipal areas) at the Secretariat and instructed the officials to seize every opportunity for women’s development and entrepreneurship in various sectors.
Naidu launched the MEPMA Mana Mitra mobile application designed to provide eight essential services to its target groups. She also introduced the mission’s annual magazine, Avaani, and the Pragnya virtual training app for women’s self-help groups.
The Prime Minister congratulated Mangalagiri entrepreneur Madhuri, who got a bank loan of ₹ 1.25 crore for her venture.
Highlighting the financial discipline and success of DWCRA (programme for development of women and children in rural areas), the chief minister noted that the groups have collectively saved ₹ 20,739 crore and accessed twice the amount through bank connections.
“There is no other network with this size and credit discipline. More than 99 percent of women repay their loans instantly. Now we must identify and develop their talents and direct them to entrepreneurship,” he said.
Naidu suggested appointing fund managers to help self-help groups utilize their loans effectively and urged authorities to facilitate quick loan disbursements. “Bankers say loans can be paid within hours. Make sure this happens on the field,” he asked the officials.
The Prime Minister called for the expansion of marketing networks and the creation of international branding for DWCRA and MEPMA products. Naidu proposed setting up Araku Coffee and Millet outlets across the state, designed in the style of Starbucks, to promote sustainable business models. “Create these outlets as a brand that reflects the identity of Andhra Pradesh. Explore cluster-based manufacturing and experiment with millet carts, water carts and drone services,” he said.
Naidu said the government plans to set up 100 product clusters in sectors such as MSMEs, food processing, water, tourism and handicrafts. She also encouraged studies on the bamboo mission of Maharashtra to explore similar livelihood initiatives for DWCRA women.
He said AP was preparing to promote seaweed culture, muringa-based products and home stay tie-ups with tourism initiatives. “DWCRA and MEPMA women need to develop into self-confident business leaders. The government will fully support their journey from savings to entrepreneurship,” the CM affirmed.
