Streenidhi Loan Limit Raised to Rs Eight Lakh in Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh government revamped Streenidhi scheme raising loan limit to eight lakh enabling approvals within forty eight hours through digital and AI systems to strengthen rural women financial empowerment.
- Streenidhi loan limit increased to Rs eight lakh
- Loans to be approved within forty eight hours digitally
- AI app and new managers to boost women banking access
The Andhra Pradesh Government has rolled out major reforms in the Streenidhi scheme aiming to speed up credit access and strengthen financial independence of rural women self help groups.
As part of the overhaul the loan approval process has been streamlined to ensure eligible DWCRA women receive funds within forty eight hours of application. Officials said this will help women avoid high interest private lenders during medical emergencies weddings and urgent family needs.
The government has also increased the Streenidhi loan ceiling significantly. The maximum loan amount for DWCRA groups has been raised from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 8 lakh marking a major expansion in credit availability. For the 2026 to 27 financial year the state has set a target of disbursing Rs twelve thousand crore in loans a sharp rise from earlier levels.
To improve transparency and efficiency an AI based mobile application is being introduced for Streenidhi operations. Through biometric authentication women can apply for loans, track approvals repay instalments, and check balances without paperwork.
Banking capacity has been strengthened with the appointment of 170 assistant managers including 97 women with experience as VOAs and bookkeepers to support self help groups at constituency level.
In another key step the government appointed a senior official from Union Bank of India as Managing Director to transform Streenidhi into a professional banking institution. Officials said this will enable faster and more transparent lending than conventional banks.
