Tag: Goa Government

TechPulse

Goa Tech Meet Showcases Rising Momentum as Major Tech Companies Set Sights on Goa

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Panaji, May 27, 2025: With India’s innovation economy entering a new phase of growth, Goa took a step forward with “Goa Tech Meet: The Future in Focus” — a high-level industry interaction hosted by the Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications (ITE&C), Government of Goa, under the leadership of Hon’ble Minister of IT, Electronics & Communications, Government of Goa, Shri. Rohan A. Khaunte.

Held at Miramar, Panaji, the exclusive meet brought together leading founders, tech entrepreneurs, and creative industry stakeholders for an open dialogue with the government on shaping Goa’s trajectory as a thriving hub for digital innovation, electronics manufacturing, and creative technology.

Also present were Shri Pramival Abhishek (IAS), Managing Director of Goa Industrial Development Corporation; Shri Kabir Shirgaonkar, Director of DITE&C; Dr. Milind Sakhardande, Joint Director of DITE&C; Shri Nijanand Vasta, Deputy Director of DITE&C; Smt. Priyatama Patil, Assistant Director of DITE&C; Shri Neville Noronha, OSD to the Hon’ble Minister for ITE&C; and Shri D. S. Prashant, CEO of the Startup & IT Promotion Cell (SITPC).

At the heart of the discussion was the Government’s focused strategy to position Goa as India’s Creative Capital—a unique confluence of technology, culture, quality of life, and entrepreneurship. The meet served as a platform to strengthen state-industry collaboration in emerging areas such as AI, Industry 4.0, sustainable tech, and design-led innovation. “We are not here to build events—we are here to build ecosystems. More forward-thinking companies are now choosing Goa as a place to build, innovate, and grow.

Our responsibility is to ensure that this momentum not only continues but scales meaningfully,” said Hon’ble Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasizing the government’s focus on delivering results, not just policies.

The Government presented its multi-tiered approach to catalyze Goa’s digital transformation. Infrastructure is being strengthened through projects like the Electronic Manufacturing Cluster (EMC) at Tuem. In parallel, the state has rolled out upgraded Startup and IT Policies designed to support a more responsive, growth-oriented environment. Goa is also expanding its support framework for digital nomads and creative professionals through upcoming initiatives such as the Design Village. A strong emphasis has been placed on enhancing skilling, reskilling, and upskilling to ensure that the local workforce remains aligned with the needs of emerging technologies.

In his welcome address, Shri Kabir Shirgaonkar, Director of DITE&C, stated, “We are creating an enabling ecosystem—from the Electronic Manufacturing Cluster (EMC) to startup grants and co-working hubs. Today’s discussion is about turning potential into partnerships.”

Shri D. S. Prashant, CEO of SITPC, further added by outlining Goa’s evolving startup and innovation strategy, highlighting revised policies, incentive models, and infrastructure in the pipeline. “Goa’s vision for 2027 revolves around Infrastructure, Communication, and Training (ICT), while supporting next-gen ideas like the Design Village and digital nomad frameworks,” he said.

The event featured representation from companies such as CHALO, Quidich Innovation Labs, Persistent Systems, Turtlemint, Kilowott, Zimetrics Technologies, Infuse Consulting, Renevik Labs, McLaren/The Grit City, Visteon Corporation and Open Destinations, among others. Delegates also included leaders from creative and design-led firms like Coco Leni, The Nod Magazine, 101 Wakepark, and TM Talent Management. These companies reflected a growing interest in Goa as a viable alternative to traditional urban tech hubs, citing better quality of life, responsive governance, and a rising innovation ecosystem as key differentiators.

With industry feedback now integrated into policy refinement and infrastructure planning, the Goa Tech Meet has laid the foundation for deeper partnerships. The Department plans to organize follow-up engagements focused on talent, market access, and scaling Goa-based startups. “We are designing Goa’s growth story with clarity and collaboration,” the Hon’ble Minister added. “This is about outcomes — not optics. Our goal is to align industry needs with state vision and to build a Goa that’s ready for the future.”

“Goa Tech Meet: The Future in Focus” reinforced Goa’s emergence as a destination where innovation, collaboration, and creativity intersect. With strong institutional support, responsive policy, and a thriving quality of life, Goa is ready to welcome the next wave of startups, technologists, and investors looking to build what’s next.

Human Interest

Goa Government Mandates Yoga Day Participation for Employees, Launches Statewide Wellness Drive

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Month-Long Yoga Sessions Begin June 1 Across All Government Departments

In a bold and wellness-driven initiative, the Government of Goa has announced that participation in International Yoga Day on June 21 is now mandatory for all employees working in government departments, semi-government bodies, and public sector corporations. The announcement marks a significant shift in policy, as Yoga Day participation was previously optional.

This landmark decision was made following a high-level planning meeting chaired by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, who emphasized the importance of integrating wellness practices into the daily routines of public servants to promote healthier lifestyles and improve workplace productivity.

Starting June 1, 2025, all departments under the Government of Goa will hold daily yoga sessions with 100% employee participation expected. These sessions are part of a larger wellness campaign leading up to International Yoga Day on June 21.

Employees unable to attend official sessions must participate at a nearby venue—such as a temple, school, or community center—and are required to submit a photograph of their participation to their respective Heads of Departments for verification.

“It is compulsory for government employees to take part in International Yoga Day activities. If they cannot attend the official sessions, they must participate at a local venue and submit a photo as proof,”
– Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant

In line with the Centre’s Mission Karmayogi, which focuses on transforming public service delivery through capacity building, the Goa government has also urged all employees to register on the iGOT Karmayogi portal. Officials are encouraged to enroll in the ‘Yoga at Workplace’ certificate course, available on the platform, to deepen their understanding of wellness in professional life.

As part of the wider campaign, yoga sessions will also be introduced in all government and higher secondary schools across the state starting June 4, coinciding with the beginning of the new academic year. The Department of Education will ensure that yoga becomes a routine morning activity for students and teachers alike, helping instill wellness habits early in life.

To ensure wide-scale participation, the state will host International Yoga Day celebrations at 30 different venues on June 21. These events will be coordinated by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs in collaboration with local bodies, yoga institutions, and civil society groups.

Chief Minister Dr. Sawant highlighted that this initiative is not merely a symbolic observance but a deliberate step toward building a healthier, more efficient, and stress-resilient workforce. He noted that the mental and physical benefits of yoga translate directly into improved focus, reduced absenteeism, and increased productivity in public offices.

“This initiative is not only beneficial for physical health but will also contribute to improved work efficiency,”
– Dr. Pramod Sawant, Chief Minister of Goa

By mandating participation and embedding yoga into daily routines, Goa has become one of the first states in India to adopt such a comprehensive wellness model within the public sector. The initiative is expected to set a benchmark for other states looking to integrate health and mindfulness practices into their administrative frameworks.

🔗 For More Information:

  • Register for the Yoga at Workplace course: https://igotkarmayogi.gov.in
  • Follow updates from the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs
  • Contact your Head of Department for daily session timings and venues
Entertainment

Goa Minister Subhash Phal Dessai Celebrates Gudi Padwa with Family

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In a heartwarming gesture, Goa’s Minister for Social Welfare, Archives & Archeology, River & Navigation, Subhash Phal Dessai, celebrated Gudi Padwa with his family at his residence in Sanguem. The auspicious occasion marked the beginning of the new year, and Minister Dessai took to social media to share his joy and extend warm wishes to everyone.


“On this auspicious day, my heartfelt wishes for the New Year to everyone!” Minister Dessai wrote. “May this year bring you love, joy, peace, and strength!” His message resonated with the spirit of Gudi Padwa, a festival that symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and the arrival of spring.


Gudi Padwa is an important festival in the Goan Hindu calendar, celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor. The festival marks the beginning of the new year, and people decorate their homes with colorful rangoli, flowers, and leaves. They also hoist the Gudi, a flag-like structure adorned with flowers, leaves, and other decorations.

Advisory

Beat the Heat: Goa Government Issues Guidelines for Public Safety

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As the summer season approaches, the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of Goa, has issued essential guidelines to help people stay safe and healthy during the hot weather. The primary objective of these guidelines is to prevent heat-related illnesses and promote public health safety.

Precautions to Take: Stay Safe and Healthy

To beat the heat, the Goa government recommends taking the following precautions:

  • Stay Indoors: Stay indoors and in shaded places, especially during the hottest part of the day (12:00 noon – 3:00 pm).
  • Dress Wisely: Wear thin, loose cotton clothing and light-colored garments to reflect the sun’s rays.
  • Hydrate: Drink plenty of water and salted drinks, such as lassi, lemon water, and fruit juices, to replace lost electrolytes.
  • Avoid Strenuous Activities: Avoid strenuous activities, especially outdoors, to prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
  • Cool Down: Take frequent cool baths and reduce room temperature using fans, coolers, or air conditioners to stay cool.

Special Precautions for Vulnerable Groups

Certain groups of people are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses, including:

  • Older Adults: Older adults, young children, pregnant women, and people with pre-existing medical conditions should take extra precautions to stay cool and hydrated.
  • Outdoor Workers: Outdoor workers should take regular breaks in shaded areas and drink plenty of water to stay safe.

By following these guidelines, people can reduce their risk of heat-related illnesses and stay safe during the hot summer months. Remember, staying informed and taking precautions is key to beating the heat and staying healthy.

Sports

Goa’s Sports Minister Explores Collaboration with Sport Lisboa e Benfica Club

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In a significant move to elevate Goa’s football landscape, Hon. Sports Minister, Government of Goa, Mr. Govind Gaude, led a delegation to Sport Lisboa e Benfica Club. in Portugal. The visit aimed to explore potential collaboration opportunities between the Goa government and the renowned football club.

Accompanying Mr. Gaude on this visit were Hon. MLA of Mayem, Mr. Premanand Shet, Hon. MLA of Cortalim, Mr. Anton Vaz, and Secretary Sports, Government of Goa, Mr. Suneel Anchipaka, IAS. Together, they met with Miguel Reis, Benfica International Global Expansion Coordinator, to discuss the possibilities of a world-class collaboration.

Unlocking Opportunities for Goan Football Talent

During the meeting, Mr. Gaude extended an invitation to Benfica FC officials to visit Goa and explore potential collaboration opportunities. These opportunities include:

  • Scouting Goan Students/Players: Identifying and nurturing local talent to promote Goa’s football landscape.
  • Grassroot Level Talent Development: Fostering young talent through specialized coaching and training programs.
  • Special Coaches and Infrastructure Assessment: Evaluating the need for specialized coaches and assessing infrastructure requirements to support the growth of football in Goa.

This potential collaboration underscores the Goa government’s commitment to developing the state’s football infrastructure and providing opportunities for local talent to shine. As Mr. Gaude emphasized, “Football is our state’s favorite sport, and the potential is very high