Panaji: Goa is expanding its technology ecosystem with a focus on job creation, digital empowerment, startups and responsible artificial intelligence. At the centre of this transformation is ITE&C Minister Rohan Khaunte, whose approach seeks to use technology not merely as infrastructure, but as a tool to create opportunities and improve everyday governance.
Since taking charge of the department in 2022, Khaunte has placed particular emphasis on digital skilling for women. A pilot drone workshop trained 12 women to operate drones for agriculture and emerging sectors. Under the Mahila Digital Sashaktikaran Yojana, nearly 115 women have also received training in digital payments, cybersecurity and other essential digital skills.
The government’s larger objective is to create employment within the state and reduce brain drain. The Goa IT Policy targets 10,000 jobs in the IT and ITeS sector, while the Goa Startup Policy aims to create another 10,000 jobs and support the establishment of 1,000 startups. The Electronic Manufacturing Cluster is also projected to generate 10,000 jobs.
The Goa Drone Policy adds another dimension, with the proposed Goa Drone Didi Training Scheme set to fully fund and certify 300 women drone pilots over three years.
Digital governance is another major priority. The unified Goa Online Portal provides access to more than 280 government services, supported by a 24 hour AI chatbot to assist citizens with documentation and application tracking.
Goa is also preparing for wider AI adoption through the Goa AI Mission 2027 and an upcoming AI policy focused on ethical and human centred technology. Plans include AI labs, a Centre of Excellence, hackathons, skilling programmes and support for local AI startups.
A strategic collaboration with BHASHINI is also aimed at developing a Konkani Large Language Model, strengthening technology access in the local language. The upcoming Goa AI Conclave is expected to bring together technology leaders, innovators and students.
The broader ambition is to position Goa as a digital, creative and innovation hub while retaining its distinctive lifestyle. Initiatives such as modern coworking spaces and the beachside Shackathon reflect an effort to combine Goa’s culture with emerging technology and entrepreneurship.
