Goa AI Tech Conclave receives strong registrations ahead of event on October 22-23

Goa AI Tech Conclave 2026 announced to anchor state’s responsible AI vision; Registrations open on official website

Goa Khabar: Showcasing the state’s AI roadmap and solidifying its position as an agile, real-world testbed for high-impact AI solutions, the Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications (DITE&C), officially announced the Goa AI Tech Conclave 2026 during a high-level press conference. Set to take place on October 22-23, 2026, at the INOX Courtyard, Panaji, the two-day conclave will unite tech leaders, startups, academia, researchers, policymakers and AI enthusiasts around the theme ‘AI for People, Planet and Progress.’

The press conference was addressed by Shri. Rohan Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology, Electronics & Communications, Tourism and Printing & Stationery, alongside Shri. Kabir Shirgaonkar, Director, DITE&C, Dr. Milind Sakhardande, Joint Director, DITE&C, Shri. Neville Noronha, OSD to Minister IT and Shri. DS Prashant, CEO, SITPC.

Speaking to the press, Shri. Rohan Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology, Electronics & Communications, emphasised, “Artificial intelligence is reshaping governance, entrepreneurship, industry and daily life. Goa is recognising this transformation and actively building a hub where people can work, innovate, collaborate and build for the world. By combining our rich cultural heritage, creative industries and tourism strength with responsible AI innovation, we are unlocking new possibilities for our citizens. Ultimately, this conclave is about placing our people first and empowering them as active drivers of India’s technological future.”

Highlighting DITE&C’s vision to enable tech growth and strengthen digital infrastructure, Shri. Kabir Shirgaonkar, Director, DITE&C, shared, “Building on Goa’s strong digital governance foundation, the Goa AI Mission 2027 and Goa AI Policy 2026 is establishing a structured framework to adopt emerging technologies responsibly and create an environment where innovation can flourish. The Goa AI Tech Conclave is a vital step in bringing these ambitions into focus, driving meaningful collaboration and building momentum for the work ahead.”

The press conference also marked the official unveiling of the Goa AI Tech Conclave 2026 website, formally opening delegate registrations and startup applications nationwide.

Serving as a platform for meaningful conversations, practical demonstrations and collaboration around the future of artificial intelligence, the Goa AI Tech Conclave 2026 will feature an action-packed agenda across main-stage panel sessions and interactive zones. On day one, the inaugural ceremony will feature the official unveiling of the Goa AI Policy 2026, the launch of the Goa AI Hackathon and the release of the Living Library of Goa Rural AI report. The hackathon is designed to address key governance and public service opportunities across various state departments in a phased manner. Under this initiative, startups and innovators are invited to build, test and deploy practical AI solutions.

The conclave will host seven expert-led panels. Day one will feature discussions with industry leaders exploring the future of AI, inclusive and ethical AI, Goa’s emergence as an AI-native Global Capability Centre (GCC) destination, AI-powered tourism in reimagining the Goa experience and homegrown innovation through Goa AI built from the ground up. Day two will continue with sessions focused on harnessing AI for climate resilience and sustainability, alongside industrial transformation and how AI is successfully reaching MSMEs.

Running parallel to the main conference, an immersive AI expo will feature 30 stalls, technology experience zones and live demonstrations. Prominent organizations and startups will showcase their work, with dedicated stalls representing MeitY, India AI, Bhashini, Google, Microsoft, CommScope, Unity, TrendAI, Sirena Technologies, Hyprlocl, PoAI and TAWAI Studio. Visitors can also explore the Department’s ongoing initiatives and progress, alongside the official hackathon problem statements.

The event will feature startup pitches and an ‘Accessibility AI Creative Challenge’ designed to encourage students to explore AI through practical applications. The conclave will also host dedicated sessions on women in technology, education and skilling in the age of AI.

Adding to the excitement, DITE&C has launched an AI Reel and Jingle Competitions centered on the theme ‘Envision Goa in 2037’ where participants are encouraged to create content using AI tools, offering attractive cash prizes of Rs. 25,000 for each category.

With the launch of the official Goa AI tech Conclave website, DITE&C invites technology leaders, startups, academic institutions, researchers and students to register as delegates or participate in the upcoming event, hackathon and other competitions. To explore the programme schedule or to register as delegate, visit the official website www.goaaiconclave.com.