Tag: Goa IT Department

Goan Personalities

IT Minister Rohan Khaunte Inaugurates Goa Pavilion at AI Impact Expo in New Delhi

Tanisha Cardozo

Rohan Khaunte, Minister for Information Technology, Electronics & Communications, Tourism, Printing & Stationery, Government of Goa, inaugurated the Goa Pavilion at the AI Impact Expo held at Bharat Mandapam on February 18, 2026, ahead of the India AI Impact Summit scheduled for February 19-20.

The AI Impact Expo serves as an experiential platform bringing together international, state, enterprise and startup pavilions to showcase cutting-edge innovations and transformative AI solutions. The Goa Pavilion highlights the state’s expanding footprint in Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies, while also featuring five promising startups — DivvyUp and Grow, Frover Labs Pvt. Ltd., Neural Kissan, Kverty and Phosic India Pvt. Ltd.

The inauguration took place in the presence of Sanjeev Ahuja, IAS, Secretary, ITE&C, and Kabir Shirgaonkar, Director, DITE&C, along with other senior officials.

Addressing the gathering, Rohan Khaunte emphasised Goa’s strategic roadmap under the Goa AI Mission 2027, which focuses on AI skilling, citizen-centric service delivery and the establishment of a dedicated AI Skilling Centre and Centre of Excellence to promote research and capacity building. He also underlined the importance of strengthening industry-academia partnerships and nurturing the startup ecosystem to position Goa as a destination where innovation thrives alongside quality of life.

During his visit, the Minister interacted with startup founders at the pavilion and held discussions with representatives from National Association of Software and Service Companies, central government bodies and industry leaders to explore collaboration avenues and attract investment opportunities for the state.

Goa’s participation at the international-level summit reflects its commitment to accelerating digital transformation and reinforcing its emergence as a preferred hub for technology innovation and AI-driven enterprises, while also strengthening its appeal as a global Digital Nomad destination.

TechPulse

Goa to Launch Drone Design and Aero Centre at Quitol as Part of Innovation Sandbox

Tanisha Cardozo

Porvorim, August 11, 2025 — Goa is preparing to soar into a new era of technological innovation with the announcement of a Drone Design and Aero Centre at Quitol, a unique facility where drones can be designed, tested, and launched in a regulated sandbox environment. This initiative is a key component of the state’s progressive Drone Policy 2022, announced by Minister for Information Technology, Electronics & Communications, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte.

🔹 A Unique Aero Hub for Drone Innovation

Set to be part of the proposed Tourism Aero Hub, the new centre will make Goa a national beacon for drone design, development, and deployment. “The Centre will be uniquely positioned in India and support next-generation innovation in drone technology,” said Minister Khaunte during the announcement.

🔹 Deep Local Roots and Global Vision

Goa’s drone policy, launched in December 2022, aims to create a full-fledged ecosystem supporting design, manufacturing, testing, and training. A shining example of local talent driving global innovation is Deepak Pathania, who is currently designing the world’s first amphibian drone — right here in Goa.

🔹 Certified Training & Women Empowerment

The Goa IT Department has initiated the empanelment of DGCA-approved agencies to offer certified drone pilot and technician training, opening career pathways for Goan youth.

Additionally, aligned with the national Drone Didi scheme, Goa plans to equip women-led Self Help Groups (SHGs) with drone technology and entrepreneurial skills. These groups will be empowered to offer services across agriculture, mining, healthcare, and tourism.

🔹 Citizen-Centric Applications and ‘Make in India’

The drone policy is not just about tech—it’s about impact. The government encourages the use of drones for services that touch everyday lives:

  • Precision agriculture
  • Land mapping in mining and forestry
  • Medical delivery in remote areas
  • Tourism videography and promotion

All these initiatives contribute to the ‘Make in India’ agenda, focusing on self-reliance and indigenous technology development.

🛠️ What’s Next?

Goa’s Drone Design and Aero Centre is poised to become a national innovation sandbox, supporting startups, researchers, government services, and entrepreneurs with infrastructure and training.With its rich talent pool, cutting-edge policy, and government support, Goa is cementing its place as a rising star in India’s drone ecosystem.