Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte unveiled a series of transformative digital and tourism initiatives on Thursday at a ceremony held at Mantralaya in Porvorim. These initiatives, spearheaded by the Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications and the Department of Tourism, represent a major stride towards strengthening digital infrastructure and enhancing Goa’s reputation as a forward-thinking tourism destination.
Key projects launched include the rollout of free public Wi-Fi hotspots at 75 locations, ensuring seamless connectivity for residents and visitors across the state. Additionally, the installation of 11 new 4G BSNL towers will enhance mobile network coverage, showcasing the government’s dedication to improving communication infrastructure.
The launch also featured the introduction of the Let’s Goa platform, designed to provide tourists with an innovative and user-friendly way to explore Goa. Alongside this, the One Map Goa GIS (Geographic Information System) portal was launched to support efficient spatial planning, infrastructure development, and governance in the state.
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The event was attended by several prominent dignitaries, including Chief Secretary V. Candavelou, IAS; Director of Tourism and GTDC Managing Director Suneel Anchipaka, IAS; Joint Director for IT Milind Sakhardande; Officers on Special Duty Neville Noronha (IT) and Shawn Mendes (Tourism); Goa Electronics Limited MD Revati Kumar; Deputy Director General of the Department of Telecom Sanjay Kumar Chaudhari; and BSNL General Manager L.B. Lal, among other senior officials and guests.
The Chief Minister highlighted the significance of these initiatives in fostering digital inclusion, advancing smart governance, and building a contemporary tourism ecosystem.
“Guided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Digital India vision, Goa is moving confidently into the future with Digital Goa. With this launch, Goa is taking a significant step forward in the Digital Kranti. This bold initiative is about leveraging technology to empower every citizen and unlock new opportunities. From free Wi-Fi hotspots, particularly benefiting students, and 4G towers ensuring seamless connectivity across the state, to the GIS Portal transforming governance and the Let’s Goa platform boosting tourism and local businesses, we are building a digitally inclusive and innovative Goa,” he stated.
Rohan A. Khaunte emphasized the importance of the four initiatives as part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat digitalization program.
“We are delivering on our promises to the people of Goa by empowering every Goan through the transformative potential of connectivity, innovation, and opportunity. To achieve Atmanirbhar Bharat, digitalization and connectivity, driven by Wi-Fi hotspots and 4G towers, play a crucial role in bridging gaps and fostering progress. The GIS Portal represents a revolutionary leap toward e-governance, providing seamless access to geospatial data and enhancing transparency and efficiency. Meanwhile, the Let’s Goa tourism experience platform serves as a comprehensive guide to Goa’s services, integrating tourism, technology, and local businesses. Together, these initiatives are shaping a future where every Goan can thrive, setting benchmarks for growth, inclusivity, and sustainability that resonate across India,” he said.
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The Director of Tourism, discussing the Let’s Goa portal, emphasized that it represents more than just a transformative leap for Goa’s tourism industry. By connecting local service providers, tourists, and officials, the platform fosters innovation, growth, and excellence. With over 100 hotels, 50 activity providers, and GTDC residencies onboard, Let’s Goa streamlines bookings, inventory management, and highlights Goa’s rich heritage and culture.
Let’s Goa also empowers local businesses while promoting wellness, adventure, and hinterland tourism, under visionary leadership. The launch of these initiatives marks a key milestone in Goa’s journey toward becoming a digitally connected, tourism-driven state, further enhancing its appeal as a destination that harmoniously blends tradition with technology.
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