The Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (DITE&C) convened a stakeholder meeting in Panaji to deliberate on artificial intelligence governance and the formulation of a comprehensive AI policy for the state of Goa.
The meeting was held at Paryatan Bhavan in Patto and chaired by Rohan A. Khaunte, Goa’s Minister for Information Technology, Electronics and Communications. Officials from various government departments, industry bodies, academic institutions, and technology organizations participated in the discussions.
Among those present were Santosh Sukhadeve, Secretary (IT); Kabir Shirgaonkar, Director of DITE&C; Praveen R. Volvotkar, Managing Director of ITG; and representatives from organizations including ASSOCHAM, the Goa Technology Association, and the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Experts from Sarvam AI and the IndiaAI Mission also joined the meeting virtually.
During the session, participants discussed the role of artificial intelligence in strengthening governance and improving public services in sectors such as tourism, agriculture, healthcare, education, and e-governance. Stakeholders also explored ways to build an ecosystem that supports AI innovation, startups, research, skill development, and industry collaboration in the state.
Khaunte said artificial intelligence is emerging as an important driver of innovation, governance, and economic growth, and highlighted the need for policies that encourage responsible adoption while promoting entrepreneurship.
Discussions also included the development of AI solutions in local languages, including a proposed Konkani large language model in collaboration with initiatives such as Bhashini, aimed at making AI tools more accessible to citizens.
Officials said the draft AI policy for Goa has been circulated among stakeholders for feedback, with further consultations planned in the coming weeks. The policy is expected to align with the goals of the Goa AI Mission 2027, which aims to promote innovation, strengthen digital governance, and expand opportunities in emerging technologies.
