Tag: Goa

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

DITE&C Accelerates Blockchain Innovation in Goa Through Industry–Academia Collaboration

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

The Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (DITE&C), Government of Goa, has strengthened its commitment to advancing blockchain adoption in the State by initiating the formation of a dedicated blockchain community. This effort brings together industry leaders, academic institutions, incubators and technology experts to explore opportunities for tokenization and the broader potential of blockchain solutions. The initiative was supported by McLaren Strategic Solutions and Omnumi, a global blockchain platform known for secure, compliant and adaptable frameworks for tokenized deposits and regulated digital currencies.

The meetings, held at Paryatan Bhavan in Panjim, created a vibrant space for collaboration. Omnumi representatives, including CEO and Co-founder Kirk Chapman, CTO Sree Tirumalasetti, Chief Architect Robin Huiser, Head of Product Delivery Joe O’Rourke and Head of Service Delivery Natalie Nopareporn, engaged participants across three specialized sessions. Corporates were introduced to the fundamentals of tokenization and the capabilities of the Omnumi platform. Blockchain specialists took a deeper dive into the platform’s technical features, with discussions on multisig architecture, card integration and deployable ERC20 contracts led by Chief Architect Robin Huiser. The final session focused on academia and incubators, exploring pathways for collaboration and skill development to prepare Goa’s youth for future opportunities in digital innovation.

Shri Rohan Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology, Electronics and Communications, emphasized that Goa’s youth possess immense potential and that blockchain is poised to be a transformative force for them. He highlighted the State’s commitment to fostering emerging technologies and creating opportunities for young professionals.

McLaren Strategic Solutions has already established Goa as a global hub through the creation of its Development Centre last year. Now, following this momentum, Omnumi is planning to set up its own operations in Goa. Together, they aim to recruit over 200 professionals in the coming years, demonstrating confidence in Goa’s tech talent and signaling further growth in the local innovation ecosystem. Representatives from McLaren noted that Goa’s academic partners and students are highly motivated to work on real-world challenges, and the company plans to provide sandbox access to the Omnumi platform along with training and support to help bring new ideas to life.

DITE&C’s ongoing efforts to position Goa as a center for emerging technologies received strong reinforcement through these discussions. Plans for a two-day hackathon will further encourage experimentation, skill-building and the development of practical use cases. The McLaren team also proposed a Goa Tourism App powered by the Omnumi Wallet, signaling opportunities for blockchain-driven solutions across sectors. Overall, the initiative marks a significant milestone in Goa’s journey toward becoming a thriving hub for digital innovation, collaboration and technological advancement.

Health

Organ Donation Awareness at Blood Donation Camp in Dona Paula, Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Health Desk

On November 21, 2025, Mr. Gabriel Pereira, Organ Donation Ambassador with the MOHAN Foundation, set up an organ donation information desk at the blood donation camp held at Bay 15 Resort, Dona Paula, Goa. The camp was organized by the Models Group in association with the Indian Red Cross Society, Goa, and the Goa Medical College Blood Bank, Bambolim, in fond memory of the late Mr. Peter Vaz, founder of the Models Group, to commemorate his birth anniversary.

The Models Group, which began as a modest real estate firm, has grown into one of Goa’s most respected names in development, tourism, and community initiatives. From landmark residential projects to iconic hospitality ventures and a celebrated football club, the group’s legacy is built on innovation, integrity, and impact. Under the guidance of Mrs. Natalina Vaz, along with Danira Vaz and Diogo Nathan Vaz, the group continues to honor the vision of Mr. Peter Vaz while driving real estate development in Goa to new heights.

At the camp, 77 attendees from various establishments of the Models Group donated blood. Mr. Gabriel Pereira distributed around 60 sets of frequently asked questions on organ donation and engaged with the donors, emphasizing the importance of organ donation. He expressed his appreciation to the blood donors for their generosity, noting that their contributions could save three to four lives. He highlighted that by pledging to donate organs, one person could save up to eight lives and enhance the lives of up to 50 people through tissue donation. Inspired by the awareness session, 10 individuals signed organ donation pledge cards.

Mr. Gabriel extended his gratitude to Mr. Rio, Program Officer at the Indian Red Cross Society, Goa, for inviting the MOHAN Foundation to participate in the camp and promote organ donation awareness.

Social

Public Conference in Margao Urges Revival of Neighbourhood Bonds for an Ideal Society

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Margao, Goa – A public conference on “Ideal Neighbourhood – Ideal Society” organised by Jamat-e-Islami Goa was held at Adarsh Convention Hall, marking the conclusion of a 10-day nationwide campaign aimed at strengthening neighbourhood relations and restoring social harmony. The event witnessed the participation of prominent religious leaders, social workers, and community representatives, including Fr. Ramiro Luis of Majorda Village, Meenaz Banu, Swamini Gopikananda Saraswati of Chinmaya Krishna Ashram, Fr. Gabriel Coutinho of Navelim Village, Asif Hussain, President of JIH Goa, Shaikh Bashir, President of the Association of All Goa Muslim Jamaats, and Chief Guest Salim Engineer, Vice President of JIH India.

The conference highlighted a pressing concern in contemporary society: although people live physically close to one another, emotional distance and social disconnect have grown significantly. Speakers observed that technology and social media, while enabling global connections, have reduced meaningful interactions with neighbours. This erosion of everyday bonds, they cautioned, undermines the very foundation of society.

The discussions emphasized that neighbourhoods are the building blocks of a peaceful nation. Simple gestures such as courtesy, cooperation, offering help, and showing kindness play a decisive role in nurturing trust and unity. All religions and value systems, the speakers affirmed, emphasize compassion, responsibility, and care for one’s neighbours.

Participants also reflected on rising individualism, insecurity, and the decline in mutual respect. They urged citizens to counter these trends by reviving empathy, strengthening communication, and engaging more actively with local communities. Healthy neighbourhood ties, it was noted, contribute directly to social harmony, justice, and collective well-being.

The conference concluded with a strong call to action for people to consciously rebuild neighbourhood relationships, organize local community activities, and embrace attitudes of patience, forgiveness, and goodwill—values deemed essential for shaping an ideal society.

Health

Organ Donation Awareness Session at Bicholim Mineral Block, Sesa Goa Vedanta Ltd.

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Health Desk

On November 19, 2025, Mr. Gabriel Pereira, Organ Donation Ambassador with the MOHAN Foundation, conducted an informative session on organ donation for the officers of Block 1, Bicholim Mineral Block at Sesa Goa Vedanta Ltd., Bicholim, Goa. The session was organized after Dr. Sunny Sarkar (MBBS, AFIH) learned about the MOHAN Foundation through the organ donation and transplant helpline at the Purple Fest 2025 and invited Mr. Pereira to raise awareness among the company’s workforce.

During the session, Gabriel introduced the MOHAN Foundation and highlighted its work over the past 28 years in promoting organ donation across India. With around 13 centres nationwide and headquarters in Chennai, the foundation has established an information centre in Goa to promote organ donation awareness throughout the state.

Gabriel explained that organ donation is only possible when a person is declared brain dead. Many people mistakenly believe that organs can still be donated if someone dies at home and the body is taken to a hospital promptly. He clarified that once death occurs at home, the organs cease to function, making organ donation impossible.

He further elaborated that in cases of brain death due to road traffic accidents or brain haemorrhages, medical teams initially make every effort to save the patient’s life. After treatments or surgeries, the patient is moved to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). If the patient does not respond, an authorised panel assesses and certifies brain stem death. Once brain death is confirmed, families are counselled about organ donation, and their consent is essential for the process to proceed.

Gabriel emphasized that only a small percentage of people have the opportunity to donate organs, but individuals can still contribute by donating tissues such as corneas, skin, or even the entire body after death at home.

The session concluded with Gabriel distributing a list of frequently asked questions on organ donation and sharing a presentation video. This included an animated short film by Shweta Gupta explaining brain death and a film on organ donation produced by ROTTO-SOTTO, Mumbai, to enhance understanding among employees.

Approximately 30 officers attended the session, and 20 individuals took donor cards, expressing their commitment to organ donation. Gabriel expressed gratitude to Dr. Sunny Sarkar and the officers of Block 1, Bicholim Mineral Block for giving the MOHAN Foundation the opportunity to conduct this impactful awareness session.