PANAJI:
IT Minister Rohan Khaunte has said that technology is evolving at a rapid pace and governance must continuously adapt to manage both its opportunities and challenges, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence.
Speaking in the House today, Khaunte said technology has emerged as the most disruptive force and stressed the need for governance to keep up. “AI offers immense opportunities, from smarter business solutions to innovations that can transform public services, but there are also risks such as deepfakes, misuse, and employment concerns. As we move forward, we must understand what comes next,” he said.
The minister’s remarks come a year after he filed a complaint regarding a fake Facebook profile impersonating him. The case, registered under sections 319 and 204 of the Indian Penal Code, along with provisions of the Information Technology Act, pertains to the misuse of his photographs to send friend requests in his name.
Shifting focus to the government’s approach, Khaunte said the State is not only conscious of the risks but is also actively using technology to improve governance, service delivery, and employment outcomes.
Highlighting the State’s digital push, Khaunte said initiatives such as the Har Ghar Fibre project and the Goa AI Mission 2027 are focused on strengthening digital connectivity, promoting innovation, and creating employment opportunities for Goan youth. “Connectivity and skills are the foundation for a strong digital economy,” he said.
He also announced that Starlink services will be introduced in Goa to ensure high-speed internet reaches rural areas and remote corners of the State. “Our aim is to make sure no region is left behind when it comes to digital access,” Khaunte said.
On talent and entrepreneurship, the minister said the government is promoting digital nomad-friendly policies and co-working spaces to attract entrepreneurs, freelancers, and startups. “We want Goa to be a preferred destination for knowledge workers and creative professionals while generating high-quality jobs for our youth,” he said.
Khaunte further announced the launch of an AI chatbot that will cover all of Goa's online services. “This will allow citizens to access government services at their fingertips and improve efficiency and transparency,” he said.
Speaking on the startup ecosystem, the minister said Goa currently has around 760 startups that have received nearly Rs 5 crore in support through seed funding and matching grants. Referring to Industry 4.0, he said AI-led innovation presents significant opportunities but must be used responsibly for balanced economic and social growth.
On industrial development, Khaunte said the Electronic Manufacturing Cluster at Tuem, which includes projects such as the anti-drone factory and Kineco, is progressing steadily, with nearly 70 percent of the planned startup units expected to be operational by 2027.
Calling on young people to think beyond employment, the minister said, “Around 90 percent of our youth are securing jobs through campus placements. Our innovative youth should aspire to become job givers, not job seekers.”
