Tag: IT policy

Human Interest

Goa Govt Holds Stakeholders’ Meet to Tackle Cable Cuts and Internet Disruptions

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

A high-level stakeholders’ meeting was convened in Porvorim on January 9, 2026, to address the growing concern of frequent cable cuts and internet disruptions across Goa. The meeting was chaired by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant, in the presence of Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology, Electronics & Communications, Shri Rohan Khaunte.

Chief Secretary of Goa Dr. V. Candavelou, IAS, along with officials from the Public Works Department, Electricity Department, Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and the Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications (DITE&C), participated in the discussions.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister expressed concern over the recurring disruptions that have been affecting businesses, educational institutions and administrative offices. He directed the Electricity Department to refrain from cutting cables without prior approvals and emphasised the need for close coordination with DITE&C before undertaking any such activities.

Dr. Sawant further instructed that advance notice must be given before conducting cable-related work and stressed strict adherence to safety and security protocols. Highlighting the importance of long-term solutions, he advised DITE&C to make provisions for underground duct infrastructure to protect critical digital networks.

In a key directive, the Chief Minister instructed the Electricity Department not to carry out cable cuts for a period of one year until the necessary underground infrastructure is put in place. He also suggested utilising existing underground ducts in areas where such facilities are already available.

The meeting concluded with a collective commitment from all stakeholders to work in close coordination, take swift corrective measures and ensure minimal disruption to internet services. The initiative underscored the government’s focus on safeguarding digital infrastructure and ensuring seamless connectivity across the state.

Business

GCCI Celebrates 117 Years of Shaping Goa’s Economic Landscape

Tanisha Cardozo

The Goa Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI), established on 3rd September 1908, proudly celebrates 117 years of unwavering service to Goa’s economy. As one of India’s oldest regional chambers, GCCI has been a constant in the state’s transformation—from the Portuguese colonial period to post-liberation development. Over more than a century, it has consistently advocated for pro-business policies, strengthened Goa’s industrial base, and nurtured its social fabric.

Under the leadership of its first-ever woman President, Mrs. Pratima Dhond, the Chamber steps into its 118th year with renewed energy and direction. Throughout its journey, GCCI has been a dynamic bridge between businesses and government, influencing policy, infrastructure, and institutional development. Its contributions span diverse sectors including trade, tourism, shipping, mining, manufacturing, IT, and sustainability.

Central to GCCI’s mission is support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs)—the bedrock of Goa’s economy. Through mentoring, training workshops, and strategic partnerships with institutions like GIM and EDC, the Chamber has built a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. Its Women’s Wing continues to empower women-led enterprises through signature events such as Asturi and Business Diva. Initiatives like the ‘Leaders@GCCI’ series have brought national thinkers to the state, encouraging dialogue that connects local challenges to global trends.

GCCI is also deeply invested in sustainable business practices and has played a proactive role in aligning academic programs with industry needs. A notable initiative is the launch of the B.Com (Retail) course at S S Dempo College, enabled by GCCI’s Retail Committee, highlighting its commitment to skill development.

Among its milestone contributions, GCCI’s involvement in formulating the Goa IT Policy and supporting infrastructure like the Manohar International Airport at Mopa has been pivotal. Through MoUs with international chambers, GCCI continues to foster global business linkages and knowledge exchange.

As it moves forward, GCCI remains committed to driving inclusive and sustainable growth. With a focus on women-led enterprises, innovation, and strategic collaboration, the Chamber reaffirms its role as a key driver of Goa’s progress and a symbol of enduring leadership.

Business

Mangirish Salelkar returns as President of Goa Technology Association for 2025–2027

allycaralgoa

 
The Goa Technology Association (GTA), the state’s premier body representing IT, ITeS, BPO companies, and technology startups, has unanimously elected Mangirish Salelkar as its President for the 2025–2027 term. A respected technopreneur and ecosystem builder, Salelkar earlier served as GTA’s President during the 2017–2019 and 2019–2021 terms, where he played a key role in shaping Goa’s tech landscape through strategic initiatives and collaborative leadership.
 
Established in 2017, GTA has grown into the collective voice of over 100 tech companies and startups in Goa. It offers a robust platform for dialogue, policy advocacy, and ecosystem building. The Association has contributed significantly to the state’s IT and Startup Policies and has led several impactful initiatives in the areas of skill development, entrepreneurship, and investment promotion.


 
While speaking on his reappointment, Salelkar said, “GTA is not just an association—it is a mission to put Goa on the global tech map. Our focus in this term will be to strengthen the ecosystem, unlock opportunities for local talent, support startups, and build strong partnerships that fuel sustainable growth.”
 
Known for his visionary outlook and inclusive leadership, Salelkar continues to play a vital role in bridging the gap between industry, academia, and government in Goa. His return to the presidency comes at a time when the state’s technology sector is poised for greater national and international relevance.


 
The newly elected GTA Managing Committee for the 2025–2027 term includes Mangirish Salelkar as President, Milind Prabhu and Rohan Warty as Vice Presidents, Chinmay Kamat as Secretary, and Amol Bhandarkar as Treasurer. Sujeet Shetty as the Immediate Past President, while the committee also includes members Yashvit Naik, Vikram Pai Raikar, and Rohir Naik. Additionally, Sunaya Shirodkar has been appointed as Chairperson of the Women’s Wing.
 
Over the next two years, GTA aims to focus on building strong industry-academia partnerships to develop future-ready talent, work closely with the government in attracting investments into Goa’s tech infrastructure, and supporting the growth of deep-tech and product-driven startups. The Association will also work on enhancing member engagement, advocating progressive policies and incentives, and establishing global linkages to showcase the potential of Goan tech talent on the world stage.
 
With a renewed leadership team and a clear roadmap, GTA is ready to lead Goa’s digital and economic transformation into its next chapter.