Tag: Mauvin Godinho

TechPulse

AI-Powered Traffic Signals Coming to 91 Junctions in Goa, New Road Signage System Also Announced

Tanisha Cardozo

In a bid to combat road mishaps and fatalities, Goa is embracing technology on its streets. Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho on Tuesday announced that AI-powered traffic signals will soon control traffic flow at 91 crucial junctions across the state.

This initiative, set to roll out in a phased manner over the next 6–8 months, is part of a broader campaign to improve road safety. Alongside these intelligent signals, a new statewide road signage system will also be implemented. The Public Works Department is expected to float tenders for the project shortly.

Data Shows Progress—but Challenges Remain

Minister Godinho revealed that Goa has seen a 14% decrease in road accidents this quarter—progress attributed to improvements at 80% of identified black spots across the state.

Yet, he was quick to note that infrastructure alone cannot prevent accidents.

“We are taking steps, and we are serious about reducing the accident rate,” he said. “But if you choose to drive at high speed or party into the night and drive unfit—how can I stop that? You’ll be a bomb on the road.”

Expanding the Safety Council

To strengthen coordination, the State Road Safety Council is being expanded. New permanent members now include:

  • Superintendents of Police (North & South Goa)
  • Officials from the Electricity Department
  • Representatives from the Health Department
  • Medical experts from Goa Medical College

This broader scope is intended to create a holistic, cross-sectoral approach to road safety.

Road Safety Week & Public Awareness

The state is also gearing up for Road Safety Week, which will feature awareness campaigns in schools, colleges, and public institutions. The government aims to instil safer road habits, especially among the youth.

Digging Dilemma and Restoration Plans

Acknowledging public frustration over road digging, the minister confirmed that restoration work will resume after the monsoon. Many of the ongoing diggings are linked to utilities and inter-departmental projects.

What’s Next?

The tendering process for AI traffic signals is expected to commence soon, targeting high-density areas first. The combined use of smart technology and policy reform signals Goa’s commitment to safer roads.

However, the human factor remains central. As Minister Godinho aptly put it, “Technology is just one tool—real change starts with responsible citizens.”

Automobiles

Goa Auto Dealers Push for Reforms, Meet Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho

allycaralgoa

PANAJI – The Goa Automobile Dealers Association, under the leadership of its President Mr. Rajesh Khaunte, held a crucial meeting with Hon. Minister for Transport, Shri Mauvin Godinho, to advocate for reforms aimed at resolving persistent challenges in the state’s automobile sector.

The association highlighted key issues, including the need for:

  • Greater representation of industry stakeholders on State Transport and Road Safety bodies
  • Streamlined and digitised processes to reduce delays and inefficiencies in vehicle registration

“The Minister was very co-operative and receptive,” said Mr. Khaunte. “He has assured his full support and promised to look into our concerns, especially the complete digitisation of the vehicle registration process — a move that will benefit both dealers and citizens.”

This meeting is seen as a step toward building a collaborative relationship between policymakers and the auto industry to foster transparency, efficiency, and innovation in public services. The association also emphasised the importance of safety, accountability, and local participation in shaping future road transport policy in Goa.

With this dialogue, the Goa Automobile Dealers Association reaffirms its commitment to driving progress and ensuring the voices of its members are heard at the policy level.

Business

GCCI Makes History at 117th AGM: Pratima Dhond Becomes First Woman President

allycaralgoa

Panaji, June 28, 2025 – In a landmark moment for Goa’s business and industrial community, the 117th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) marked a historic leadership transition. Held at Taj Cidade de Goa, the event witnessed Mrs. Pratima Dhond taking over the mantle of President of GCCI, becoming the first woman to lead the Chamber in its 117-year legacy.

The event was attended by dignitaries including Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant as Chief Guest, Industries Minister Mr. Mauvin Godinho as Guest of Honour, and Mr. Sanjay Kirloskar, Managing Director of Kirloskar Brothers Ltd., who delivered the keynote address.

Outgoing President Mr. Shrinivas Dempo expressed deep gratitude to his team for their commitment and success during his term. He reflected on key initiatives such as:

  • Influential budget memorandums accepted by state and central governments
  • Dialogues on taxation and policy
  • The Leaders at GCCI series featuring eminent names like Mohandas Pai, M.J. Akbar, Vikram Chandra, and Amitabh Kant
  • The visionary Inclusive & Sustainable Growth@2037 Conclave, which proposed a roadmap for ₹15,000 crore investment and creation of 1 lakh jobs in Goa

Mrs. Pratima Dhond, in her acceptance speech, acknowledged Mr. Dempo’s contributions and shared her vision for GCCI’s future. She outlined a bold, inclusive agenda:

  • Championing Nari Shakti and women-led development
  • Advocating future-ready and innovation-led policies
  • Strengthening MSMEs through easier access to finance
  • Promoting green business practices and sustainability
  • Fostering youth engagement, research, and data-driven governance
  • Amplifying digital outreach for broader impact

In a stirring keynote, Mr. Sanjay Kirloskar shared insights from his journey in building a global business. He proudly announced the upcoming launch of an all-women operated pump manufacturing unit in Goa, inspired by the successful model in Coimbatore.

Minister Mauvin Godinho emphasized the need for a shift in the mindset of Goan youth — from job seekers to job creators. “Goa has immense potential as a manufacturing and export hub,” he said, highlighting the rise in MSME registrations and global integration of local businesses.

Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant commended Mr. Dempo’s leadership and celebrated Mrs. Dhond’s groundbreaking presidency. He reiterated his vision to make Goa a developed state by 2037, a full decade ahead of India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 goal.

“We are a small state, but agile. With high literacy, robust institutions, global connectivity, and public goodwill — Goa is well-positioned to lead through unity, innovation, and reforms,” the Chief Minister said. He emphasized initiatives spanning:

  • World-class infrastructure
  • Skilled manpower and job linkages
  • Investment-friendly governance
  • Sustainable development
  • Tourism, education, health, and women empowerment

As part of the agenda, Dr. Sawant launched a B.Com course in Retail Management, designed by GCCI to boost Goa’s job-intensive retail sector. He also released the GCCI Bulletin on Sustainable Growth, further cementing the Chamber’s commitment to inclusive development.

Mr. Sanjay Amonkar, Director General of GCCI, hosted the event, while CA Rohan Bhandare, Hon. Treasurer, proposed the vote of thanks.