Tag: Rohan Khaunte

Travel

Goa Unveils Bold Regenerative Tourism Vision at National Tourism Ministers’ Conference 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa presented a bold, regenerative tourism roadmap at the National Tourism Ministers’ Conference held in Udaipur on 14th and 15th October 2025. Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, led the delegation, accompanied by Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, and Shri Shawn Mendes, OSD to the Minister. The event, hosted by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, brought together top tourism officials from across the country to align national and state-level strategies for transforming India into a leading global tourism destination.

Shri Rohan A. Khaunte emphasized that Goa’s tourism strategy is grounded in regenerative principles—prioritizing economic growth, environmental stewardship, and community well-being. He shared that the 2025–26 season has begun on a strong note with increased international charter connectivity and the unveiling of major destination development projects designed to position Goa as a future-ready, experience-driven destination.

Two flagship projects were the highlight of Goa’s presentation: the Mega Performance Arena in Mandrem (Pernem) and the Lord Parshuram Statue & Museum, part of the Lifescape Project in Loliem (Canacona). The arena, a 20,000-seater world-class venue, will serve as a northern gateway for hosting international-scale events, cultural shows, and conventions. Meanwhile, the Parshuram project will become a landmark for cultural, spiritual, and immersive tourism in South Goa, reflecting Goa’s focus on “Goa Beyond Beaches.”

Shri Kedar Naik shared that Goa’s tourism transformation is built on inclusive growth, tech-enabled safety, and a visitor-first philosophy rooted in “Atithi Devo Bhava.” The state’s approach integrates infrastructure, heritage conservation, and cutting-edge digital solutions to enhance the tourist experience. Both the highlighted projects are expected to bring significant community benefits, including employment generation and cultural revival.

The conference also featured discussions on the Integrated Tourism Promotion Scheme, Performance Linked Incentives (PLI), and the development of 50 tourism destinations across India. Goa’s representation aligned closely with these frameworks, with its seven-pillar tourism diversification plan, encompassing eco-tourism, cultural heritage, MICE, adventure, leisure, wellness, and medical tourism.

In a significant update, Shri Khaunte also announced strengthened international air connectivity. Goa has witnessed the arrival of the first charter flight of the season, along with new weekly flights from Novosibirsk to MOPA. Aeroflot now operates nine weekly flights from Moscow, Yekaterinburg, and Novosibirsk, solidifying Goa’s growing presence in the Russian market. Starting 25th October, charter flights from Kazakhstan will further diversify inbound tourism sources.

With its strategic direction, Goa is poised to emerge as a national leader in sustainable, inclusive, and globally competitive tourism. Its participation in the National Tourism Ministers’ Conference reaffirmed its commitment to being a collaborative and visionary stakeholder in shaping the future of Indian tourism.

TechPulse

Goan Startups Shine at India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025

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New Delhi, October 2025: The India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025 concluded on October 11, 2025, after a four-day celebration of innovation, technology, and digital transformation at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre, New Delhi. Organized by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), the event was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia.

Representing Goa’s growing technological aspirations, a delegation from the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (DITE&C), led by Minister Shri Rohan Khaunte, showcased the State’s rapidly evolving startup ecosystem. The delegation included Shri Sanjeev Ahuja (IAS, Secretary ITE&C), Shri Kabir Shirgaonkar (Director, DITE&C), Dr. Milind Sakhardande (Joint Director, DITE&C), and Shri Neville Noronha (OSD to the Minister of IT).

Speaking about the event, Minister Rohan Khaunte stated:

“Goa continues to play a pivotal role in shaping India’s digital future. Our startup ecosystem is driving the next wave of innovation. IMC 2025 provided an excellent platform for these startups to connect with global leaders and scale their businesses.”

Five promising Goan startups — Avyott Ventures Pvt. Ltd, Linq Haul Pvt. Ltd, Spintly, ByHorse, and Svayu IT Pvt. Ltd — participated in the exhibition, presenting their cutting-edge solutions to more than 1.5 lakh attendees.

Startup Voices:

  • Aneesh, Associate Director at Linq Haul, said: “IMC 2025 has been an incredible platform to connect with innovators and explore new technologies. Being part of the Goa delegation reflects the State’s focus on tech-driven entrepreneurship.”
  • Kunal, Social Media Manager at ByHorse, shared: “The energy and ideas at IMC were incredible. It’s great to be part of a community shaping the future of technology.”
  • Ashish, Founder of Svayu IT, added: “It’s exciting yet challenging as a solo entrepreneur to represent Goa on such a large stage. A great experience overall.”

Goa’s participation at IMC 2025 reaffirmed its growing role in India’s digital and startup revolution, highlighting its commitment to building a tech-savvy, innovation-driven future.

Travel

Goa Gears Up for a Memorable Year-End with ‘Feels Like Goa’ Campaign

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Panaji, 10th October 2025: As the festive season draws near, Goa is set to welcome visitors with its new year-end campaign — “Feels Like Goa”, a heartfelt celebration of the state’s timeless charm, cultural richness, spiritual essence, and festive spirit.

Designed by the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, the campaign aims to evoke nostalgia and rekindle the emotional connection travelers share with Goa — reminding the world that Goa is not merely a destination, but a feeling.

Speaking about the campaign, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, said:

“Goa has always held a special place in the hearts of travelers across the world. With ‘Feels Like Goa’, we are bringing back the essence of what makes Goa truly unique — its people, culture, and soul. This campaign is a tribute to timeless memories and an invitation to experience Goa with the same emotion and warmth as always.”

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added:

“We are committed to regenerative tourism — creating meaningful experiences that benefit both travelers and local communities. This campaign revives travel sentiment and supports local businesses while preserving the essence of Goa.”

The Department’s vision for Goa’s tourism future is rooted in sustainability and inclusivity. Alongside the campaign, Goa has laid the foundation for Unity Mall, Porvorim Town Square, and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Digital Museum — key projects that diversify travel experiences beyond beaches and nightlife.

Through “Feels Like Goa”, the government aims to position the state as a multi-dimensional destination — one where every sunset, festival, and smile carries a story.

As 2025 draws to a close, Goa invites the world to come home to its heart — to feel its rhythm, warmth, and joy once again.

TechPulse

Goa Tunes In to HamFest India 2025

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A global celebration of communication, innovation, and community spirit

Ponda, October 13, 2025: Riding a wave of innovation and connectivity, HamFest India 2025 took place on October 11–12 at the Goa College of Engineering (GEC), Farmagudi, uniting radio enthusiasts, technology innovators, and experts from across the globe.

Organised by the Goa Radio Amateur Society (GRAS) in association with Goa College of Engineering and supported by the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (DITE&C), Government of Goa, the event marked the 32nd edition of HamFest India — and Goa’s first time hosting it.

More than 700 delegates from India and abroad attended the event, including representatives from Royal Omani Amateur Radio Society, AMSAT-India, and Upagrah Amateur Radio Club.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Shri Rohan Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications, along with Group Captain & Astronaut Subhanshu Shukla (VU2TNI), Shri Nitin Raiker, Dr. M.S. Krupashankara (Principal, GEC), and Shri Sandesh Bhat (VU22DX), Convenor of HamFest India Goa.

In his inaugural address, Minister Rohan Khaunte stated,

“This year’s HamFest holds special significance as Goa proudly hosts the 32nd edition for the very first time. Known for its cultural heritage and educational vibrancy, Goa provides the perfect backdrop for an event that beautifully blends technology, learning, and community spirit. The Government of Goa remains committed to supporting such initiatives that promote technical excellence, innovation, and social responsibility.”

Across two dynamic days, HamFest India 2025 featured:

  • 40+ technical sessions and 8 live demos on radio technologies and innovation
  • 37 exhibitors showcasing antennas, transceivers, and communication equipment
  • Hands-on workshops exploring the practical applications of amateur radio
  • Interactive discussions with renowned operators involved in disaster response and emergency communications

For the first time ever, Goa became the heart of India’s amateur radio movement — a space where technology met passion, and where the hum of innovation resonated across communities.

As the curtains came down on HamFest India 2025, participants left inspired, connected, and energized — a true reflection of how technology continues to unite people across borders and frequencies.

Events in Goa

International Purple Fest Goa 2025 Announced; Accessible Boardwalk Inaugurated at Miramar Beach

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

The state of Goa is preparing to host the International Purple Fest Goa 2025, a celebration of inclusion, accessibility, and empowerment for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), scheduled from October 9 to 12, 2025. The announcement was made by Minister for Empowerment for Persons with Disabilities, Subhash Phal Dessai, during a press briefing attended by key stakeholders including State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities Guruprasad Pawaskar, Director of the Department of Empowerment for PwDs Varsha Naik, Secretary for PwDs Taha Haziq, and Advisory Board member Prakash Kamat.

In a powerful prelude to the fest, the Government of Goa also inaugurated an Accessible Boardwalk at Miramar Beach, a landmark initiative that reinforces the state’s commitment to inclusive infrastructure. The boardwalk will allow Persons with Disabilities safe and dignified access to the beach and even the sea—an experience many have previously been excluded from. The project, developed by the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), is a first-of-its-kind initiative in the state and is set to become a major highlight of the Purple Fest.

The inauguration was led by Minister for Social Welfare Subhash Phal Dessai and Minister for Tourism Rohan Khaunte, with senior officials from GTDC including Managing Director Kuldeep Arolkar present. The effort demonstrates cross-departmental collaboration in pushing forward Goa’s vision for accessibility, inclusion, and empowerment.

With inclusive spaces like Miramar now better equipped to welcome all, and Purple Fest 2025 on the horizon, Goa continues to set the standard for accessibility and dignified participation for all citizens, regardless of ability.