Tag: RohanKhaunte

Travel

Goa Welcomes First Charter Flight from Katowice, Poland for the Season

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Panjim, 9th January 2026 – Goa celebrated a key moment in its international tourism calendar with the arrival of charter flight ENT 1443 from Katowice, Poland, landing at Manohar International Airport (MOPA) at 09:30 hrs on Friday, 9 January 2026.

The flight, carrying 189 passengers, is the first charter arrival from Katowice for the current tourist season and the second charter flight from Poland to the state this year. Passengers received a warm Goan welcome, reflecting the state’s commitment to hospitality and visitor experience.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, expressed optimism about the arrival:
“The first charter flight from Katowice is a positive development for Goa’s international tourism sector. Poland remains an important source market for us, and charter operations like this strengthen our efforts to diversify markets and promote quality tourism. We are committed to improving connectivity, ensuring seamless travel experiences, and positioning Goa as a responsible, year-round global destination.”

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added:
“Charter arrivals such as these are vital in sustaining international tourist inflow and supporting local stakeholders. The growing interest from Polish travellers underscores Goa’s appeal beyond beaches, encompassing culture, wellness, hinterland experiences, and nature-based tourism. We will continue collaborating with airlines and tour operators to enhance international connectivity.”

The charter operations from Poland highlight Goa’s increasing popularity among European tourists and reinforce the state’s ongoing efforts to expand air connectivity with key markets. The Department of Tourism continues to work closely with stakeholders to promote year-round tourism, ensuring visitors experience Goa’s diverse offerings, including its coastline, wellness, culture, cuisine, and hinterland adventures.

With the arrival of this charter, Goa strengthens its presence in the European travel market and sets a positive tone for the current tourist season.

Goan Personalities

Goa Minister Rohan Khaunte Pays Tribute on Veer Bal Diwas at Betim Gurudwara

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Goa Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan Ashok Khaunte, offered humble tributes on the occasion of Veer Bal Diwas at Shree Guru Singh Sabha Gurudwara, Betim, commemorating the extraordinary courage and supreme sacrifice of Sahibzada Zorawar Singh Ji and Baba Fateh Singh Ji, the younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

The solemn event was attended by BJP Goa State President Shri Damodar Naik, MLA Saligao Shri Kedar Naik, along with other dignitaries, members of the Sikh community, and devotees. The gathering paid homage to the young martyrs whose steadfast faith and bravery continue to inspire generations across India.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Rohan Khaunte recalled the historic sacrifice of the Sahibzadas, emphasizing that their courage stands as a timeless symbol of righteousness, resilience, and unwavering commitment to truth. He noted that Veer Bal Diwas serves as a reminder for today’s youth to draw inspiration from their values of courage, unity, and selflessness.

The programme at the Gurudwara was marked by prayers, reflection, and remembrance, reinforcing the spirit of communal harmony and respect for India’s rich and diverse heritage. The dignitaries present highlighted the importance of preserving and sharing such stories of sacrifice, which form the moral foundation of the nation.

Veer Bal Diwas, observed across the country, honours the supreme sacrifice of Sahibzada Zorawar Singh Ji and Baba Fateh Singh Ji, who laid down their lives at a tender age while standing firm in their faith and principles.

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.

Special Occasion

A Day of Daughters: Love, Pride, and the Power of a Smile — Leaders Across Goa Celebrate National Daughters Day

Tanisha Cardozo

National Daughters Day is not just a celebration—it is a feeling etched deep into the hearts of parents, families, and communities. It’s a reminder of the unconditional love, boundless energy, and quiet strength that daughters bring into our lives every single day. This day offers an opportunity to reflect on the joys of raising a daughter, to honor their spirit, and to amplify their voices in a world that hasn’t always treated them equally.

In its earliest form, the day was created to counter harmful cultural norms in societies where daughters were undervalued. It served—and still serves—as a powerful reminder that every girl deserves to grow up in a world that sees her as strong, capable, and irreplaceable. Over time, the meaning of the day has deepened. It’s become personal, emotional—a celebration of identity, of dreams, and of the unbreakable bond between a daughter and her parents.

Goa echoed this emotion as National Daughters Day was met with warmth and admiration from leaders across the state. Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant shared a heartfelt message about empowering girls and supporting their ambitions. MLAs Rohan Khaunte, Michael Lobo, Yuri Alemao, Delilah Lobo, Jit Vinayak Arolkar, Chandrakant Shetye, and Speaker Dr. Ramesh Tawadkar also expressed their love and pride—reminding their communities of the beauty and power daughters bring into our world.

These tributes transcended political boundaries—they came from a place of genuine love. They celebrated daughters not as future leaders or citizens alone, but as individuals who matter deeply in the present moment. Girls who are strong, curious, creative, and brave. Girls whose dreams deserve to be nurtured and whose presence brings life to every home.

Across the world, Daughters Day is celebrated on various dates—September 25 in many places, the fourth Sunday of September in India, or even September 28 or October 1 in other regions. But the meaning remains timeless and universal. It’s a day rooted in the heart, not just the calendar.

Families mark the day in different ways. Some take their daughters out for special meals or create small keepsakes. Others simply spend time together—talking, laughing, reflecting. Social media fills with warm photos and tributes, filled with pride and emotion. In more challenging parts of the world, the day becomes a platform to advocate for education, safety, and equality for every girl.

At its core, National Daughters Day is a love letter. A promise. A moment to say: You are valued. You are powerful. You are loved.

In a daughter’s laughter lives our hope. In her dreams, our future. In her strength, our pride.

And that is worth celebrating—not just today, but always.

TechPulse

Last Chance to Register: Goa Startup Accelerator Program Applications Close September 10

Tanisha Cardozo

With just days remaining for the application deadline, Goan startups are urged to seize the opportunity to register for the Goa Startup Accelerator Program, an initiative led by the Startup and IT Promotion Cell, Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (DITE&C). The program, which was launched in July 2025, will close its application window on September 10, 2025.

The accelerator program is being conducted under the leadership of Hon’ble Minister Shri Rohan Khaunte, and driven by the vision of empowering local innovation through structured support. The initiative aims to scale up 30 MVP-stage startups that are either registered or actively building in Goa. Selection will be done through a competitive process involving open applications and nominations by an expert committee comprising incubators, industry leaders, and ecosystem stakeholders.

Designed to nurture startups with real market potential, the Goa Startup Accelerator offers selected participants access to business and technical mentorship, investment opportunities, real-time requirement mapping, one-on-one clinics, workshops, and a concluding demo day where startups can pitch to investors and industry leaders.

Speaking about the program, Shri Kabir Shirgaonkar, Director of DITE&C, highlighted the relevance of such initiatives in today’s innovation landscape. He said, “Goan startups today are not just addressing real-world problems but also generating employment opportunities in the State. Through our Goa Startup Accelerator Program, we aim to support promising startups, facilitating access to investment and industry expertise. After a rigorous selection process, top 30 startups will be chosen to participate in the program. We invite high-potential startups to apply and join us in shaping the future of Goa’s startup landscape.”

As the program’s final application deadline approaches, MVP-stage startups from Goa are encouraged to apply immediately and join a program designed to fuel rapid and sustainable growth in the local startup ecosystem.

To apply, visit the official website and complete the application form before September 10, 2025.