Summary:
The Government of Goa has announced the rollout of the ‘Har Ghar Fiber’ initiative to deliver high-speed internet connectivity to every household in the state. Initially launching in Porvorim, Sankhalim, and Bicholim, this ambitious project is part of a broader digital transformation strategy under the Goa Broadband Network (GBBN).
What is Har Ghar Fiber in Goa?
“Har Ghar Fiber” is a government-backed initiative that aims to ensure fiber-based high-speed internet access for every household in Goa. The project is scheduled to begin on a pilot basis in North Goa and will eventually expand throughout the state. The announcement was made by Goa’s Information and Technology Minister Rohan Khoute, which focused on IT, electronics and communication grants during a legislative session.
Strengthening Digital Infrastructure in Goa
Alongside “Har Ghar Fiber” the government is taking several steps to enhance last-mile digital access:
- Four new Common Service Centers (CSCs) will be installed in Darbandora, Valpoi, Panjim and Porvorim, which will improve digital service distribution in both rural and urban areas.
- Under the Goa Broadband Network (GBBN), 414 places including 189 gram panchayats and 225 government offices are already connected to a safe digital network.
- More than 1,500 government and institutional offices across the state are currently part of this network.
Free Public Wi-Fi and e-Governance Access
To promote digital inclusion, free public Wi-Fi has been deployed in 137 hotspots covering all 40 constituencies in Goa. The locations were selected from the local MLA to ensure maximum community benefits based on input.
Additionally, Goa Online Portal currently provides 247 digital services from 41 departments, which facilitates more than 31 lakh transactions and benefits more than 8 lakh citizens. These services are also accessible through the CSC network, which ensures access to the ground level.
Goa’s Growing Startup Ecosystem
Goa is also nurturing its digital economy through startup support:
- 759 startups are registered under Goa Startup Policy and DPIIT.
- The government has funded 4.10 crores through various startup support schemes.
With projects such as Har Ghar Fiber, extended CSC and digital services, Goa is giving itself a digitally inclusive and a state as a prepared state. These initiatives are expected to increase governance, bridge digital division and strengthen local startup ecosystem.
