Gates acknowledged CM's role in digital revolution, says Palla

Amaravati: Microsoft founder and Gates Foundation Chairman Bill Gates expressed his appreciation for Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu's technology-driven governance, which has brought immense pride to Andhra Pradesh, according to Telugu Desam Party (TDP) State president Palla Srinivasa Rao.

Gates' visit to the Real-Time Governance Society (RTGS) centre at the State Secretariat, where he closely observed the functioning of the real-time public service delivery model, was seen as a significant recognition of Chandrababu Naidu's long-standing administrative vision. Srinivasa Rao highlighted Gates' keen interest in the governance framework explained by the Chief Minister, underscoring the growing international attention to Andhra Pradesh's digital governance initiatives.

Gates reportedly remarked that Naidu stands out as a leader with a truly global outlook, particularly in the seamless integration of digital governance into everyday public life. Drawing from his extensive exposure to governance systems across countries, Gates observed that it is uncommon to find leaders who not only speak of digital transformation in theory but also translate it into effective, on-ground execution. The RTGS mechanism, which enables swift decision-making and real-time responsiveness to citizens' needs, was cited as a testament to this forward-thinking approach.

Rao noted that Gates acknowledged Naidu's role alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi in shaping India's broader digital revolution, making it a momentous occasion.

He emphasised that Naidu's unique contribution lies in using technology not just as an administrative tool, but as a catalyst for improving outcomes in critical sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and disaster management'areas that directly impact people's lives.

Recalling his first meeting with Naidu, Gates noted the Chief Minister's exceptional ability to think ahead of his time. He compared Naidu's vision to that of leaders from some of the world's most advanced urban centres, even remarking that Naidu possessed the strategic foresight of Singapore's leadership during its transformative phase.

Rao further stated that Gates' assurance of the Gates Foundation's willingness to partner with Andhra Pradesh in achieving the goals of the 'Swarna Andhra Vision'2047' reflects strong international support for the State's long-term development agenda.

He also highlighted Gates' reported praise for the State's 'Sanjeevani' healthcare initiative, which he called an 'excellent model,' viewing it as a testament to the government's people-centric governance.

Rao noted that Gates' light-hearted reference to Naidu as a 'good old friend' symbolised nearly three decades of mutual respect and trust.

He also recalled Naidu's role in encouraging Microsoft's presence in Hyderabad during the 1990s'an early decision that helped lay the foundation for the region's evolution into a technology hub and for the State's present-day digital governance architecture.