Tag: InclusiveGrowth

TechPulse

DITE&C’s Skilling Initiatives Gaining Momentum Under Minister Rohan Khaunte

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Goa’s digital transformation has been rapid under the leadership of Hon’ble Minister of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications Shri Rohan Khaunte. One of the key pillars driving this growth is digital skilling — an effort to ensure that Goa’s citizens are prepared for the opportunities of a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Goa is redefining its development narrative, not only through its rich tourism and cultural heritage, but also through a forward-looking digital vision that empowers every citizen. Guided by Shri Rohan Khaunte’s vision, the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (DITE&C) has been implementing initiatives that strengthen connectivity, nurture innovation, and prepare Goa’s workforce for the future.

At the heart of this vision lies the belief that development must be inclusive. The Department of ITE&C is committed to equitable growth, launching several initiatives aimed at building a digitally skilled population and bridging the digital divide, especially among youth, women, and marginalized communities.

One such initiative is the Free Laptop Distribution Scheme for Meritorious Students from the Scheduled Tribe (ST) and Scheduled Caste (SC) communities. This scheme provides deserving students with the essential digital tools to access online education, skill-building platforms, and career opportunities. Since 2022, more than 300 students have benefited, highlighting the State’s commitment to inclusive digital empowerment. Students like Varad Matondkar from Lourdes Convent High School, Saligao, and Sohan Malgaonkar from Loyola High School, Margao, expressed gratitude to the Goa Government and Minister Shri Rohan Khaunte, emphasizing how these laptops have enhanced their learning experiences.

To further empower Goa’s youth, DITE&C has established IT Knowledge Centres (ITKCs) across the State. These centres offer job-oriented IT training programs designed to build employable skills. Currently, seven ITKCs operate across Bardez, Ponda, Sanguem, and other talukas, bringing digital learning closer to local communities. Over 20,000 training sessions have been conducted, benefiting more than 5,000 participants and resulting in nearly 19,500 e-certificates across 46 modules.

Recognizing the crucial role of women in social and economic development, the Department launched the Mahila Digital Shashaktikaran Yojana (MDSY). This flagship program aims to provide digital training to women, enhance their employability, and help them participate confidently in Goa’s digital journey.

An Additive Manufacturing Hub is also being developed under the Goa Information Technology Development Corporation (GITDC) to promote 3D printing technology. Through a structured three-level training program — beginner, intermediate, and advanced — the initiative ensures skill development for students, government officers, and trainers. Infinyt3D Pvt. Ltd. acts as a knowledge partner, providing technical expertise, software support, and operational guidance.

Under Shri Rohan Khaunte’s leadership, Goa is also gearing up for the next wave of innovation with the Goa AI Mission 2027. The mission envisions building a strong AI talent and infrastructure ecosystem from schools to startups. Plans include introducing AI courses in educational institutions, establishing the Goa AI Academy, and organizing AI bootcamps, masterclasses, and hackathons.

With these initiatives, Goa is positioning itself as India’s Creative and Innovation Capital — a State where technology meets inclusivity, and every citizen is empowered to thrive in the digital age.

Travel

Rohan Khaunte Emphasises Government–Academia–Industry Synergy at GIST 2025 to Drive Inclusive Innovation

Tanisha Cardozo

The third edition of the Goa Innovation and Startup Times (GIST 2025) was held on October 31, 2025, at Vivanta Goa, Panjim, celebrating the spirit of collaboration, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Organised by BITS Pilani’s BITS BioCyTitH Foundation in partnership with the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (DITE&C), the Goa Technology Association (GTA), the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), and the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber Physical Systems (NM-ICPS), the event brought together policymakers, entrepreneurs, academicians, and industry experts under one roof.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Guest Shri Rohan Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology, Tourism, and Printing & Stationery, emphasised the Goa Government’s commitment to building a robust innovation ecosystem. He underlined the State’s focus on mentorship, infrastructure, and financial support for startups, noting that with 703 startups already registered under DPIIT, Goa is fast emerging as a hub where creativity meets technology. Khaunte also highlighted the government’s inclusive approach to policymaking, where inputs from academia and industry are shaping forward-looking frameworks.

He cited the Goa AI Mission 2027 as an example of this vision, aimed at making Goa a leader in emerging technologies and artificial intelligence. The initiative, he explained, not only focuses on fostering a thriving business environment but also seeks to empower the State’s youth to become job creators.

The event featured multiple sessions exploring innovation for social impact and sustainable development. One of the key highlights was the panel discussion titled “Innovation by the Seaside – Technology Drivers,” which featured industry leaders such as K. Bhattacharyya of Putzmeister, Dr. P. Kamat of Suzega, S. Chittore of Quantum AI Global, and M. Tiwari of Ethernet Xpress. Moderated by Dr. A. Pethe from Texas Instruments, the discussion focused on how AI and quantum technologies are shaping the next wave of innovation.

Another significant panel, “Science, Policy and Sustainability,” examined real-world applications of science and technology in addressing key societal challenges. Moderated by Dr. Jennifer Lewis, the session featured insightful contributions from Prof. A. Parulekar of GIM, Dr. B. Manjunath of Syngenta, Mr. M. K. Patil, Former Chairman of the Goa State Pollution Control Board, and Ms. Tripti Somani, Founder of Womennovator.

Guest of Honour Ms. Revathi Kamath, entrepreneur and educationist, delivered an inspiring address urging entrepreneurs to contribute toward social equity by making education and technology accessible to underprivileged communities. She reminded the audience that innovation carries a moral responsibility to serve society.

GIST 2025 also celebrated women entrepreneurs through a dedicated Women Entrepreneurship Camp, complemented by a startup expo and translational research showcase. A closed-door investment pitching session provided startups with opportunities to secure funding and partnerships.

Through its engaging sessions and strong cross-sector collaboration, GIST 2025 reaffirmed Goa’s position as a growing hub of innovation and inclusive growth — driven by the shared efforts of government, academia, and industry.

Health

Goa’s Women & Child Development Department Wins SKOCH Gold Award 2025 for Childhood Nutrition

Tanisha Cardozo

The Department of Women and Child Development, Goa, has earned the SKOCH Gold Award 2025 for its outstanding contribution to “Improving Childhood Nutrition through Anganwadi Services.”

The announcement was made on Wednesday, with Minister Vishwajit Rane calling it a proud moment for Goa. He emphasized that the recognition reflects the state’s dedication to ensuring that every child receives the right start in life through better nutrition and care.

“This recognition is a testament to our unwavering efforts in ensuring that every child receives the right start in life through better nutrition and care,” Rane shared on X.

The award acknowledges the department’s alignment with the national mission of nurturing a healthier and empowered generation under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Rane credited the achievement to Director Jyoti Desai, the Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs), and the Anganwadi Workers (AWWs), whose tireless work has been instrumental in making the program successful.

He added that the award further strengthens Goa’s resolve to build robust systems that promote child well-being, gender equality, and inclusive development in line with the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat.

The recognition places Goa among leading states that are innovating and strengthening grassroots programs in child nutrition and care through Anganwadi services, showcasing a model for other regions to follow.