In a major boost to women empowerment and financial inclusion, the Andhra Pradesh government is introducing a fully digital transformation of Streenidhi, bringing banking-level services directly to women Self Help Groups (SHGs).
From Manual Books to Digital Transactions
With this move, traditional bookkeeping methods will be completely eliminated. All financial transactions related to Streenidhi will now be handled through a digital and paperless system, ensuring accuracy, transparency, and speed.
Women SHG members will no longer need to maintain physical registers, as every transaction will be recorded digitally and accessible in real time.
Launch of AI-Based Streenidhi App
At the heart of this transformation is the launch of an AI-powered Streenidhi mobile application. The app is designed to simplify loan processing, monitoring, and repayments, making financial services easily accessible even in rural areas.
Using artificial intelligence, the system will assess applications efficiently and reduce processing delays that were common in manual systems.
Loans in Just 48 Hours
One of the most impactful features of the new system is the promise of loan disbursement within 48 hours of application. Once a Self Help Group applies through the app, funds will be credited quickly without unnecessary delays.
This rapid turnaround is expected to significantly help women entrepreneurs meet urgent business and livelihood needs.
Biometric and Paperless Process
The new Streenidhi platform will operate on a biometric-based, paperless model. Identity verification, approvals, and documentation will all be handled digitally, reducing dependency on intermediaries and paperwork.
This system enhances security while ensuring ease of use for SHG members.
Easy Loan Repayment Through App
Repayment of loans will also be simplified. SHG members can repay their loans directly through the Streenidhi app, eliminating the need for physical visits to offices or banks.
This feature is expected to improve repayment discipline and reduce transaction-related hassles.
Increased Loan Limits for SHGs
In another major relief, the government has increased the loan ceiling for Self Help Groups. The loan limit per SHG has been raised from ₹5 lakh to ₹8 lakh, enabling women groups to expand their economic activities.
This enhancement reflects growing confidence in the repayment capacity and entrepreneurship of women-led SHGs.
Ambitious Target for 2026–27
The government has set an ambitious target of ₹12,000 crore in Streenidhi loans for the financial year 2026–27. This large-scale credit flow is aimed at strengthening rural livelihoods, small businesses, and women-led enterprises across Andhra Pradesh.
With digital tools, AI integration, and higher loan limits, Streenidhi is poised to function on par with banks while remaining accessible, inclusive, and women-centric.
A New Era for Women’s Financial Empowerment
The digital makeover of Streenidhi marks a significant step towards empowering women economically and integrating SHGs into the formal financial ecosystem. By combining technology with grassroots empowerment, Andhra Pradesh is setting a strong example of inclusive digital governance.
