NoMoZo 7.0 highlights sustainable living, regenerative tourism and responsible innovation

Goa Khabar : Transforming the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Marg, Porvorim into a lively, people-centric space, the seventh edition of NoMoZo (No-Motor Zone) took place on Sunday, January 11, 2026, promoting sustainable urban living through reduced vehicular movement and community engagement. The annual event provided a platform for startups and student innovators to showcase solutions rooted in sustainability, responsible innovation and technology-driven problem-solving.

The event was organised under the leadership of Rohan Khaunte, Minister for Information Technology, Electronics & Communications (DITE&C), Tourism, Printing & Stationery and MLA of Porvorim. GTDC Chairman and MLA Saligao Kedar Naik was
also present. Renowned actor Manoj Bajpayee graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, lending further prominence to the celebration.

Marking its presence at NoMoZo 7.0, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, set up an engaging stall showcasing the State’s vision for Regenerative Tourism. The exhibit highlighted responsible travel practices that generate positive social, cultural and environmental outcomes, encouraging visitors to engage more meaningfully with Goa’s communities, heritage and natural ecosystems. The stall featured informative displays on various Goa Tourism initiatives focused on strengthening sustainable, experiential and community-driven tourism across the State.

The Tourism Department stall also highlighted key cultural and spiritual initiatives, including Carnaval and other new tourism initiatives, along with a preview of the upcoming Shigmo festival, one of Goa’s most vibrant cultural celebrations. Overall, Goa Tourism’s presence at NoMoZo 7.0 reflected the Department’s integrated approach to tourism, bringing together sustainability, culture and community participation, and reinforcing Goa’s positioning as a year-round destination rooted in responsible, inclusive and experience-driven tourism.

A heritage zone showcased work of local artisans including the traditional Goan earthen pots, offering visitors an insight into Goa’s living craft traditions. A dedicated space, by the Startup & IT Promotion Cell (SITPC) under the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (DITE&C), also stood out as an aspirational platform, providing startups and student entrepreneurs with an opportunity to
showcase their cutting-edge solutions and entrepreneurial talent.

Adding to the innovation showcase, beneficiaries of the Campus Innovation Scheme presented projects addressing real-world challenges. Don Bosco College of Engineering students presented two notable projects. Students from the Electronics and Computer Science Department presented ‘Synapse-Connect: A Neuro-Muscular Signal Integration Framework’ focused on advanced human–machine interaction. Students from the
Mechanical Engineering Department showcased a sustainability-driven project titled ‘Processing and Testing of Recyclable Materials for 3D Printing Applications’ that demonstrated how recycled materials can be effectively repurposed for additive manufacturing.

From Agnel Institute of Technology and Design, the team ‘Innovator’s Squad’ showcased a smart jacket for visually impaired individuals designed for obstacle detection and navigation. Another team from AITD demonstrated AI Aaji, a voice assistant designed to provide real- time updates and support various user tasks.

Startups like Sevaco, a mobile application that connects busy individuals with verified students to get everyday tasks completed quickly; Burraa, India’s Go-Out App that enables users to discover and book curated experiences; Asier Solutions, focused on STEM skill building courses for students and DigiWiz, an IT company specialising in robotics, drone kits and services, IOT hardware and home automation, added further depth to the showcase with their solutions.

The event successfully highlighted how innovation, technology and entrepreneurship are driving Goa’s growth. The diverse range of exhibits reflected the state’s creative potential and reinforced its emergence as a hub for technology-driven and innovative solutions.