PANJIM: Notwithstanding the opposition to the proposed Information Technology (IT) Park at Chimbel, the State Cabinet on Friday accorded Integrated Information Technology Township status to the proposed area.
The cabinet, via circulation, also approved to develop a Hybrid Information Technology Park at Penha-de- Franca under the Goa Information Technology Development Act, 2007.
“Government of Goa is developing the Integrated IT Township at Chimbel village and Hybrid IT Park at Penha-de-Franca in order to address future demands of IT infrastructure. It is envisaged that these parks would provide a steady supply of employment opportunities besides being specifically geared towards the needs of the IT/ITeS sector,” the cabinet note stated.
With the declaration, the provisions of any law relating to local authorities providing for control or erection of buildings, levy and collection of taxes, fees and other dues to the local authorities in the areas would cease to apply thereof.
As per the proclamation, which was approved by the Cabinet, panchayats which are receiving house tax from the occupants of the said area, under their respective laws, would be compensated by the government for a period of five years.
The finance department, while clearing the proposal, observed that the Department of IT has statutory powers to declare certain areas as notified areas under the IT Act and hence, would not like to offer further comments.
“Government of Goa intends to create and nurture a globally competitive IT ecosystem that powers the State’s economic growth, and firmly establish Goa as a preferred destination for investment in high-end software products and service capabilities,” the note mentioned.
The Cabinet has allowed the IT Department to invite suggestions and objections from people who would be affected by the move.
