Tag: DITE&C

Travel

Goa and Norway Strengthen Ties to Collaborate on Technology, Tourism and Creative Industries

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Travel Desk

Goa deepened its global engagement as a high-level delegation from Norway visited the State for a roundtable hosted by the Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications (DITE&C), in collaboration with the Department of Tourism. The interaction focused on exploring partnerships in technology, tourism, creative industries, skilling, cybersecurity and sustainability. The discussions were held in the presence of Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology, Electronics and Communications and Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, alongside senior officials including Kabir Shirgaonkar, Director of DITE&C; Dr. Milind Sakhardande, Joint Director, DITE&C; Dr. Gavin Dias, General Manager (Marketing) of GTDC; Shri D. S. Prashant, CEO of Startup and IT Promotion Cell; and representatives from Kilowott. The Norwegian delegation featured key leaders such as Trond Skundberg, General Manager of NICCI; Christian H. Engh, CEO of the Norwegian Cybersecurity Cluster; Monica Skjellen-Larsen, Advisor at Gjøvikregionen Utvikling; Bjørn Aspøy, CEO of Smart Farm AS; Sheraline Rocha, Head of Strategic Partnerships at Nordic Intent; Aditya Prabhugaonkar of Kilowott; Yeshtesh Shirodkar of Consstruct; and Prabha, Director at NICCI.

Hon’ble Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte emphasized that Goa is increasingly shaping a development model that brings together technology, creativity and sustainable tourism. He highlighted ongoing initiatives ranging from electronic manufacturing and AI skilling to a robust startup policy that positions Goa as an attractive destination for global collaboration. He further noted that the State’s tourism strategy is increasingly focused on technology-enabled experiences, immersive storytelling and climate-conscious practices. He reiterated that Goans must remain central beneficiaries of any international partnership, with opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship and skill development.

Christian H. Engh, CEO of the Norwegian Cybersecurity Cluster, explained why Norway considers Goa a strategic partner. He underscored that Norway, one of the world’s most digitised nations with strengths in renewable energy, electric mobility and advanced technology, is now looking toward India to address talent needs and co-develop scalable innovations. Engh stressed that Goa’s commitment to sustainability, clean mobility and future-ready tourism strongly aligns with Norway’s priorities. He further noted that aquaculture technology—an established strength of Norway—offers promising potential for joint initiatives with Goa.

The roundtable also included a presentation by Shri D. S. Prashant, CEO of the Startup & IT Promotion Cell, who discussed Goa’s evolving startup ecosystem, strong policy environment and emergence of a creative-tech landscape that combines design, technology and innovation. This was followed by a detailed briefing by Dr. Gavin Dias from GTDC, showcasing Goa’s tourism strategy and its increasing emphasis on sustainability, wellness, Ayurveda, medical tourism, heritage conservation and biodiversity-driven travel. Investment opportunities in hospitality, experiential tourism, charter operations and research-based collaborations were also highlighted.

During the interaction, the Norwegian delegation outlined several actionable areas for future collaboration. These included university partnerships, academic and incubator exchanges, talent mobility programmes between Goa and Norway, research-led collaborations and the introduction of international diver certification programmes. The delegation also discussed strengthening the NICCI network in India and leveraging Norway’s global expertise in aquaculture, marine technology and clean energy to align with Goa’s emerging opportunities in these sectors.

As Goa accelerates its work in technology, creative industries, skilling and sustainable tourism, the engagement with the Norwegian delegation underscores the State’s readiness for global partnerships. The discussions highlighted the mutual interest of both regions in shaping future-oriented initiatives anchored in innovation, sustainability and shared growth.

TechPulse

Goan Startups Shine at India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025

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New Delhi, October 2025: The India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025 concluded on October 11, 2025, after a four-day celebration of innovation, technology, and digital transformation at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre, New Delhi. Organized by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), the event was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia.

Representing Goa’s growing technological aspirations, a delegation from the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (DITE&C), led by Minister Shri Rohan Khaunte, showcased the State’s rapidly evolving startup ecosystem. The delegation included Shri Sanjeev Ahuja (IAS, Secretary ITE&C), Shri Kabir Shirgaonkar (Director, DITE&C), Dr. Milind Sakhardande (Joint Director, DITE&C), and Shri Neville Noronha (OSD to the Minister of IT).

Speaking about the event, Minister Rohan Khaunte stated:

“Goa continues to play a pivotal role in shaping India’s digital future. Our startup ecosystem is driving the next wave of innovation. IMC 2025 provided an excellent platform for these startups to connect with global leaders and scale their businesses.”

Five promising Goan startups — Avyott Ventures Pvt. Ltd, Linq Haul Pvt. Ltd, Spintly, ByHorse, and Svayu IT Pvt. Ltd — participated in the exhibition, presenting their cutting-edge solutions to more than 1.5 lakh attendees.

Startup Voices:

  • Aneesh, Associate Director at Linq Haul, said: “IMC 2025 has been an incredible platform to connect with innovators and explore new technologies. Being part of the Goa delegation reflects the State’s focus on tech-driven entrepreneurship.”
  • Kunal, Social Media Manager at ByHorse, shared: “The energy and ideas at IMC were incredible. It’s great to be part of a community shaping the future of technology.”
  • Ashish, Founder of Svayu IT, added: “It’s exciting yet challenging as a solo entrepreneur to represent Goa on such a large stage. A great experience overall.”

Goa’s participation at IMC 2025 reaffirmed its growing role in India’s digital and startup revolution, highlighting its commitment to building a tech-savvy, innovation-driven future.

TechPulse

Goa Tunes In to HamFest India 2025

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A global celebration of communication, innovation, and community spirit

Ponda, October 13, 2025: Riding a wave of innovation and connectivity, HamFest India 2025 took place on October 11–12 at the Goa College of Engineering (GEC), Farmagudi, uniting radio enthusiasts, technology innovators, and experts from across the globe.

Organised by the Goa Radio Amateur Society (GRAS) in association with Goa College of Engineering and supported by the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (DITE&C), Government of Goa, the event marked the 32nd edition of HamFest India — and Goa’s first time hosting it.

More than 700 delegates from India and abroad attended the event, including representatives from Royal Omani Amateur Radio Society, AMSAT-India, and Upagrah Amateur Radio Club.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Shri Rohan Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications, along with Group Captain & Astronaut Subhanshu Shukla (VU2TNI), Shri Nitin Raiker, Dr. M.S. Krupashankara (Principal, GEC), and Shri Sandesh Bhat (VU22DX), Convenor of HamFest India Goa.

In his inaugural address, Minister Rohan Khaunte stated,

“This year’s HamFest holds special significance as Goa proudly hosts the 32nd edition for the very first time. Known for its cultural heritage and educational vibrancy, Goa provides the perfect backdrop for an event that beautifully blends technology, learning, and community spirit. The Government of Goa remains committed to supporting such initiatives that promote technical excellence, innovation, and social responsibility.”

Across two dynamic days, HamFest India 2025 featured:

  • 40+ technical sessions and 8 live demos on radio technologies and innovation
  • 37 exhibitors showcasing antennas, transceivers, and communication equipment
  • Hands-on workshops exploring the practical applications of amateur radio
  • Interactive discussions with renowned operators involved in disaster response and emergency communications

For the first time ever, Goa became the heart of India’s amateur radio movement — a space where technology met passion, and where the hum of innovation resonated across communities.

As the curtains came down on HamFest India 2025, participants left inspired, connected, and energized — a true reflection of how technology continues to unite people across borders and frequencies.

TechPulse

Goa’s Startup Accelerator Program Kicks Off to Create Jobs and Fuel Innovation

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Panaji, July 21, 2025: In a major step to strengthen Goa’s innovation ecosystem, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology, Electronics & Communications Shri Rohan A. Khaunte officially launched the Goa Startup Accelerator Program—a dynamic, 5-month initiative aimed at propelling Goan startups into their next growth phase.

Spearheaded by the Startup and IT Promotion Cell under DITE&C, the program will support a curated cohort of 30 high-potential startups—including 25 officially registered in Goa and 5 based in the state but not yet formally registered. Applications for the program open July 22, 2025, through this form.

The accelerator is built around a structured ecosystem of:

  • Masterclasses by domain experts
  • One-on-one mentorship clinics
  • Dedicated growth tracks across product, business, and fundraising
  • A finale Demo Day to pitch to investors, corporates, and policymakers

“Goa’s long-term vision is to build a connected, visible and outcome-driven startup ecosystem,” said Shri Rohan A. Khaunte. “This accelerator unifies our innovation network and positions Goa as a national hub for scalable entrepreneurship.”

Shri Kabir Shirgaonkar, Director of DITE&C, highlighted the platform’s robust engagement features: a real-time dashboard for tracking progress, mentor engagement, and measuring outcomes.

“We’re going beyond one-time incentives—this is about sustained support and measurable impact.”

The program also reflects a strategic shift under the Goa Startup and IT Policy, which aims to foster youth-led innovation and job creation. With Demo Day serving as a spotlight event, participating startups will have a chance to showcase their progress and attract key stakeholders.

Whether you’re a startup founder, mentor, or investor—this marks a defining chapter in Goa’s startup journey.

Applications Open: July 22, 2025
🔗 Apply Now

TechPulse

Goa Appoints Department of IT as Nodal Agency to Fast-Track Telecom Infrastructure

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Altinho, July 2025: To accelerate the expansion of digital infrastructure in Goa, the Government has designated the Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications (DITE&C) as the State Designated Department (SDD) for implementing the Telecommunications (Right of Way) Rules, 2024.

This move aims to simplify and speed up the approval process for setting up telecom infrastructure such as mobile towers, underground cables, and other digital connectivity systems. It reflects the government’s continued commitment to improving Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) and enabling faster, single-window clearances.

  • DITE&C will serve as the nodal agency for all RoW permissions and No Objection Certificates (NOCs) related to government land, under a centralized eServices portal developed by the Department of Telecommunication, Government of India.
  • All other state departments are required to appoint Nodal Officers to ensure smooth coordination with the SDD.
  • Land usage charges and application fees for government and municipal land, including street furniture, will be collected by DITE&C appropriately transferred to the Treasury.
  • Local bodies, corporations, and municipalities land usage charges and application fees will be collected by DITE&C appropriately transferred to respective land-owning bodies.
  • Compensation for the use of public property for telecom infrastructure will be assessed and paid either once or annually, based on rates decided by the public authority.

This decision is expected to significantly improve Goa’s digital infrastructure, minimize approval delays, and support broader access to better mobile and internet services throughout the state.