Goa tunes in to HamFest India 2025
Ponda, October 13, 2025: Riding a wave of innovation, HamFest India 2025, took place on October 11-12, 2025 at the Goa College of Engineering, Farmagudi Ponda, uniting radio enthusiasts, tech innovators and experts from all the globe.
Celebrating the global ham radio community and its innovations, this year’s edition was organised by Goa Radio Amateur Society (GRAS) in association with Goa College of Engineering (GEC) and supported by the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (DITE&C), Government of Goa. Royal Omani Amateur Radio Society, AMSAT-India, Upagrah Amateur Radio Club were also part of the event. More than 700 delegates from across the globe participated at HamFest India 2025.
The inaugural was graced by Shri Rohan Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications, Goa (ITE&C); Group Captain and Astronaut Subhanshu Shukla VU2TNI; Shri Nitin Raiker, Director of Fire and Emergency Services, Goa; Dr M.S. Krupashankara, Principal of Goa Engineering College and Shri Sandesh Bhat VU22DX, Convenor, Hamfest India Goa.
*Speaking at the event’s inauguration, Shri Rohan Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister of ITE&C, stated,* “This year’s HamFest holds special significance as Goa proudly hosts the 32nd edition for the very first time. Known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant educational ecosystem and scenic landscapes, Goa provides the perfect backdrop for an event that beautifully blends technology, learning and community spirit. I am delighted to see over 600 licensed amateur radio operators from across India and the world gathered here, making this event a global dialogue on innovation, preparedness and connectivity. The Government of Goa remains committed to supporting initiatives like HamFest that promote technical excellence, innovation and social responsibility. They align perfectly with our broader vision of building a digitally empowered and resilient society, one where technology connects not just systems, but people and purpose.”
Over the two-day, the event featured over 40 dynamic technical sessions, including eight live demos, designed to inspire and educate, as well as collaborative workshops that delve into the practical applications of amateur radio. Additionally there were 37 exhibitors demonstrating various antenna, radio and other related equipment.
Attendees got the opportunity to interact with renowned ham radio operators, each bringing unique insights and expertise. Notable among them were those who have been instrumental in connecting remote communities and using their knowledge to assist in critical situations, including disaster response efforts.
Held for the very first time in Goa, HamFest India 2025 offered something special for everyone. With the combination of hands-on workshops, innovative technical sessions and Goa’s serene coastal environment, the event was not just a gathering, but an unforgettable experience.
