The Goa Technology Association (GTA), the state’s apex body for the IT industry, hosted its highly anticipated Annual General Meeting and Awards Night 2025 — an evening that brought together thought leaders, policymakers, industry veterans, and changemakers to celebrate Goa’s technology growth story and pave the path forward.
Held in the presence of several distinguished guests, the event was graced by Shri Rohan Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology, Government of Goa, along with Shri Rajesh M. Revankar, Vice Chairman of the Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council of India (ESC); Shri Ajay Prasad Shrivastava, Director of Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), Pune; Shri Nitin Kunkolienker, Chairman, Advisory Council of MAIT; Shri Kabir Shirgaonkar, Director of Information Technology, Government of Goa; and outgoing GTA President Shri Sujeet Shetty.
One of the most inspiring moments of the evening was the felicitation of 25 Goan IT trailblazers — the co-founders and leaders of IT, ITeS, and BPO companies who have built and sustained their businesses in Goa for over a decade. Their efforts were recognized as a testimony to the entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and contribution to the development of a robust local tech ecosystem.
Two landmark Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed during the event. The first was between GTA and the Directorate of Higher Education, Government of Goa, aimed at bridging the gap between academia and industry. This partnership will enable initiatives such as job fairs, internship programs, tech events, and skill-building programs across colleges, ensuring students are prepared for a rapidly evolving tech landscape.
The second MoU was signed between GTA and the Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC), a strategic collaboration to guide and empower the Goan IT industry in adapting to future technologies, increasing export potential, and aligning with national growth policies.
Another key highlight was the change in leadership at the helm of GTA. Mr. Mangirish Salelkar was elected as the new President for a third term, taking charge alongside a dynamic new Managing Committee. The incoming team reaffirmed its vision to accelerate innovation, foster deeper collaboration between stakeholders, and make Goa a thriving tech destination.
Speaking at the event, Hon’ble Minister for IT, Shri Rohan Khaunte, remarked, “Goa’s IT ecosystem needs enablers who can bridge the gap between ambition and execution. GTA has consistently stepped up to champion this cause by promoting local entrepreneurs, building academia linkages, and aligning with national growth agendas.”
Expressing gratitude and optimism, GTA President Mr. Mangirish Salelkar said, “Our journey is rooted in the belief that Goa can be more than a destination — it can be a powerhouse of technology, talent, and transformation. As we honour our IT heroes and partner with visionary institutions, GTA reaffirms its commitment to creating sustainable tech opportunities, building capabilities, and shaping the future of Goa’s digital economy.”
The GTA AGM & Awards Night 2025 was a celebration of past achievements, current milestones, and the limitless possibilities of the future — reaffirming the association’s commitment to empowering the Goan tech ecosystem and fostering inclusive, sustainable innovation.
