Goa Pioneers AI-Driven Governance Revolution

Goa is emerging as a trailblazer in India’s digital transformation, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to create a more inclusive, transparent, and citizen-centric governance framework, announced State Information Technology Minister Rohan Khaunte. Speaking at the 18th Digital Technology Conclave (DTC) on August 22, 2025, organized by GovConnect in partnership with Goa Electronics Limited (GEL), Khaunte outlined the ambitious Goa AI Mission 2027, aimed at positioning the state as a leader in South Asia’s AI ecosystem.

“Through AI and emerging technologies, we are building a smarter, future-ready Goa that aligns with the vision of Viksit Bharat,” Khaunte declared during the conclave’s inaugural session, themed From Digital India to Viksit Bharat – A Unified Vision for Governance Transformation. The event, held at a prominent venue in Panaji, brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and tech experts to discuss digital governance, cybersecurity, and next-generation public infrastructure. GovConnect, a national platform for knowledge-sharing, facilitated robust dialogues on enhancing citizen services through technology.

The Goa AI Mission 2027, spearheaded by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, rests on four pillars: skilling, startups and companies, capital, and government policy and infrastructure. Key initiatives include the establishment of a Goa AI Mission Council to draft a state-specific AI policy, the creation of AI Labs and Centers of Excellence (CoEs) for research and innovation, and the integration of AI education in schools and colleges. A unique feature is the development of a Konkani Large Language Model (LLM) to preserve Goa’s linguistic heritage, ensuring cultural inclusivity alongside technological progress.

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Khaunte highlighted practical applications, such as an AI-powered WhatsApp chatbot integrated with the Goa Online portal, which streamlines citizen queries and reduces manual intervention. “This is not just about efficiency but about creativity and transformation,” he said, emphasizing Goa’s commitment to ethical AI adoption. GEL’s CEO, Revati Kumar, detailed ongoing projects like an AI-based document verification system to enhance transparency and combat fraud, reinforcing the state’s digital resilience through a planned Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence.

The conclave featured insights from Mizoram’s Information and Communication Technology Minister Vanlalthlana and senior officials, who praised Goa’s proactive approach. With nearly 350 IT companies and startups operating in the state, Goa is transitioning from its tourism-centric identity to a hub for innovation. The mission aims for 100% employability for college graduates by fostering AI skills and supporting startups through a proposed Goa.AI Innovation Fund and AI Hackathons. As Khaunte noted, “Goa’s spirit of openness and resilience positions us to lead India’s AI revolution.”

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