Goa's IT sector attempts leap from beach paradise to productivity paradise.  Gomantak Times
Lifestyle

Not just vacation, Goa is now #workation destination too

Goa IT department’s Global Opportunities Aggregator initiative commits to innovation and connectivity

Abigail Crasto

When it comes to escaping the routine chaos, Goa has been the ultimate vacation spot to recharge. But imagine this: you carry your laptop to those very shores, soak up the sun and the bliss plus work on those presentations. That’s right, Goa is now taking the leap towards becoming a productivity paradise.

Addressing the media, Goa Department of Information Technology, Electronics, and Communication on January 10, unveiled an innovative vision as an opportunities aggregator, leveraging its natural ingredients conducive to fostering innovation and creative development.

Recognising the importance of a collaborative ecosystem, Goa has worked towards creating digital hubs, technological communities and a robust fiber network to connect with every village since its 2017 startup policy.

“Building on the momentum generated by digital nomad and creative capital initiative the department of Information and Technology is today launching the Global Opportunities Aggregator -GOA initiative,” IT Minister Rohan Khaunte said.

(L-R) D S Prashant, Chief Executive Officer - Startup and IT Promotion Cell, Goa, IT Minister Rohan Khaunte and Yashaswini B, IAS, Director of DITE&C, Govt. Of Goa.

This initiative aims to prioritize man-power development, focusing on women, youth, entrepreneurs and MSMEs to drive the technological advancement and enhance the overall competitiveness.

“Goa aims to become an attractive destination for youth seeking opportunities in emerging technologies, creative innovations, entrepreneurships, designs and manufacturing,” the minister added.

Leveraging Goa’s unique characteristics, the government envisions building a pluriverse where diverse worlds coexist.

As part of its commitment to this initiative, the government is exploring the creation of co-working spaces on beaches, digitally-equipped sea hubs and heritage locations, blending workspaces with the state’s unique geographical and historical assets.

Speaking at the launch, D S Prashant, emphasised on the importance of collaboration and partnerships.

“Design In Goa is one component that we are planning to do, where people equipped with talent who want to build their startups, can come and design their products right here,” explained D S Prashant, Chief Executive Officer – Startup and IT Promotion Cell, Goa while spelling out how the department plans to take off.

This initiative will also facilitate seamless remote collaboration, safeguard intellectual property, provide mentorship and introduce a universal access card for accessing facilities like medical services, transportation, internet, co-living and more in Goa.

Local as well as national media houses were present at the launch held on January 10, 2024.

This move aligns with the evolving dynamics of work and is a reflection of the government’s dedication to fostering a conducive environment for innovation and growth.

“Our government is actively seeking partnership and collaboration to further enhance Goa’s stance in being the creative capital of the country, let’s hash tag workation Goa,” Khaunte concluded.

Your Gateway to Goa, India

The Gomantak Times app is the best way to stay informed on anything happening in Goa. From breaking news to the top 10 restaurants to visit, GT helps you navigate your time in Goa.

Download the Gomantak Times app on your Android or IOS device.

SCROLL FOR NEXT