Goa Sets Sights on Becoming AI Leader with Focus on Skills, Startups, and Governance

Goa Government Develops AI Roadmap with Emphasis on Skill Development

The Goa government has set up a council dedicated to artificial intelligence (AI) to guide the creation of a six-month AI roadmap for the state. This council will feature CEOs from several international companies and will be fully formed within six months. The roadmap will prioritize skill development, funding, government policies, infrastructure, and strategies to attract AI-first startups to Goa.

Integrating AI into Education and Key Sectors

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant stated the government’s goal to introduce AI concepts at the school level. The focus areas for AI application include tourism, governance, and cybersecurity. The state also plans to expand startup accelerator programs to support AI innovation.

Sawant highlighted the intention to collaborate with the central government to achieve Goa’s AI objectives and positioned Goa as a pioneer among Indian states in adopting AI initiatives.

Collaboration with Industry Leaders and Tech Experts

The Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (DITE&C) has involved senior executives from global firms such as McLaren Strategic Systems, Omnumi, and former PayTM Money leaders. According to IT Minister Rohan Khaunte, these experts have met twice to craft and implement the clear vision outlined in "Goa AI Vision 2027."

The initial AI project launched is an AI-powered chatbot that connects the GoaOnline platform with WhatsApp, streamlining access to governance and public services. The broader mission aims to accelerate AI adoption, skill development, and the growth of AI startups within the state.

Building an AI Ecosystem with Multi-Stakeholder Participation

The government plans to adopt a multi-stakeholder strategy, involving government departments, startups, academic institutions, and industry leaders. Academic partners include BITS Pilani Goa and Goa Engineering College, which will contribute to policy formulation.

Goa currently hosts around 350 startups and IT companies, with at least 20 focused exclusively on AI technologies. Goa Technology Association president Mangirish Salelkar emphasized the goal of increasing the number of Goan AI companies.

Ultimately, the government aims for local talent to secure employment within the AI sector, fostering a sustainable AI ecosystem aligned with the state’s development goals.

Further Learning and Skill Development

For executives and IT professionals interested in AI skill-building to align with such initiatives, Complete AI Training offers a variety of courses tailored to different skill levels and roles.