Security has been tightened in Goa [Images] for the International Film Festival of India that begins Thursday, following 'specific intelligence.'

'Specific intelligence indicates that Goa could be next on the terrorists' target,' reads a dossier prepared by the state police for security arrangements during IFFI. 'And it is essential that strict checking is carried out at all venues.'

The dossier says terrorists have been known to carry out repeated reconnaissance of the terror target.

'They have also been known to plant an explosive device even before the rostrum is constructed and therefore there should be a strict watch on the venue even when construction activity is on,' the dossier reads.

The dossier assumes significance in the light of Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil's statement on Wednesday in New Delhi that the country's coastal areas were under increasing threat from terrorist groups.

The Goa police dossier says terrorists can disguise themselves as police personnel. The police have been asked to maintain a strict vigil on all those entering the venue of IFFI, especially during the inaugural ceremony.

Six companies of Central Industrial Security Force have been stationed for the two-hour cultural parade through the streets of Panaji. There is also intense security at D B Bandodkar Football Ground, the venue of the inaugural ceremony.

Veteran actor Shashi Kapoor is to inaugurate the 10-day festival. Dignitaries attending include Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Priya Ranjan Dasmunsi and a host of film personalities.