In a significant move towards digital and economic empowerment, the Government of Andhra Pradesh has launched the ‘Digi-Lakshmi’ scheme, aimed at uplifting urban poor women through technology-driven entrepreneurship. As per G.O. MS. No. 117, the scheme outlines the establishment of 9,034 Common Service Centres (CSCs) across all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in the state, setting a benchmark in inclusive urban development.
These centres will be managed and operated by eligible Self-Help Group (SHG) women, bringing to life the state’s ambitious ‘One Family, One Entrepreneur’ vision. The initiative is designed not just as a digital access programme but as a catalyst for economic transformation. By placing SHG women at the helm of CSCs, the state aims to transition these grassroots collectives into Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), enabling long-term financial independence and self-reliance.
Each CSC under the Digi-Lakshmi scheme will serve as a digital access point offering a range of government and private services to citizens. These include bill payments, digital literacy training, document services, and access to welfare schemes—bridging the digital divide while ensuring service delivery at the last mile. The scheme also strengthens the urban SHG network, providing them with stable income opportunities and entrepreneurial training.
This initiative aligns with the state’s larger goals of digital inclusion and women’s economic empowerment. By promoting women-led digital enterprises, Andhra Pradesh is also contributing to the objectives of the Digital India mission and the National Urban Livelihoods Mission (NULM).
Additionally, the programme is expected to generate thousands of sustainable livelihoods, especially for women who have traditionally been excluded from the formal economy. It enables them not only to access digital services but to be providers of such services within their own communities.
The Digi-Lakshmi scheme represents a convergence of social empowerment and digital transformation. It fosters a new model of urban entrepreneurship, rooted in community, inclusivity, and resilience. Through this visionary initiative, the Andhra Pradesh government is setting an example for other states in promoting digital-led development that places women at the forefront of change.
With over 9,000 centres being set up and operated by SHG women, Digi-Lakshmi is poised to redefine the role of urban women as not just beneficiaries, but as leaders and drivers of digital and economic progress.
