Goa is rapidly embracing digital transformation, with women across the state emerging as entrepreneurs, innovators, and digital contributors. From grassroots digital literacy initiatives to advanced technology training and startup incentives, the Government of Goa is expanding economic opportunities for women across both rural and urban landscapes. Under the leadership of Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology, Electronics & Communications, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, the Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications (DITE&C), Government of Goa, is implementing a range of programmes designed to unlock women’s potential through technology, skills development, and entrepreneurship. Mahila Digital Sashaktikaran Yojana A flagship initiative, the Mahila Digital Sashaktikaran Yojana aims to bridge the digital divide, particularly for women in rural and underserved areas. The scheme provides hands-on training in the use of digital devices, online platforms, and essential digital services. Open to Goan women aged 18 and above with a minimum of 15 years of residency in the state, the programme is delivered through empanelled Information Technology Knowledge Centres (ITKCs), Common Service Centres (CSCs), and Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs). Training sessions are conducted in accessible locations such as panchayat halls and community centres, ensuring last-mile reach. By bringing digital literacy directly to villages, the initiative is improving employability, enhancing digital confidence, and enabling women to access wider markets and online opportunities. From Villages to Skies: Women in Drone Technology Goa has also introduced drone pilot training for women under the national Drone Didi scheme. Women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs) receive specialised training in drone operations and maintenance, opening pathways in agriculture, logistics, disaster management, and environmental monitoring. For many rural women, this initiative marks a transition from technology users to technology-driven service providers, creating new income streams and fostering entrepreneurship within local communities. Women-Focused Startup Support under Goa Startup Policy 2025 Under the Goa Startup Policy 2025, the Startup and IT Promotion Cell has launched targeted mentoring and funding support for women-led startups. Women founders working in cutting-edge fields such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Drones, Robotics, AR/VR, AVGC, and 3D printing are eligible for a monthly allowance of ₹20,000 for up to 12 months. This one-time financial assistance supports startups at the ideation, prototyping, validation, or early traction stages, ensuring access to capital, mentorship, and structured guidance during the critical early phase of their entrepreneurial journey. Building a Gender-Inclusive Digital Economy From digital literacy at the village level to advanced drone training and startup funding, Goa’s initiatives are creating a gender-inclusive ecosystem where women actively participate in both traditional and emerging sectors. As digital tools reach remote areas and technology-led enterprises continue to grow, women are becoming key contributors to Goa’s evolving innovation and economic landscape, reinforcing the state’s vision of inclusive and sustainable growth.
