PANJIM: In a major decision, the draft ‘Goa Investment Policy’ has proposed that the industries coming under Green category shall be exempted from renewals of their NOC/consent to operate from Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB).
As of now, all the industries irrespective of green, orange and red category, have to seek consent to operate from GSPCB, which is valid for a particular period and subject to renewal. The policy, however, stated that the industries under green category will be subject to minimum fixed charges for obtaining initial consent to operate.
“The electronics/non-polluting industries under manufacturing/services category can opt for self certification through nominated agency,” the policy reads. However, any lapse on their part in meeting the norms of GSPCB shall be reviewed and subject to certification by GSPCB, it added.
Policy Highlights
Thrust areas: Pharmaceuticals, food processing, agro-based industries, IT and IT enabled service, tourism (medical, eco, adventure, heritage), entertainment
Plans to set up: SEZ, food park, wine park, pharma park, agro-economic zone, film city
Develop Goa as ‘Export/ Import Hub’ and encourage export oriented industries
Cluster development centres in rural areas to sustain traditional livelihoods
Encourage eco-friendly, employment generating industries
PPP in generation of power from conventional as well as non conventional sources
Development of special investment regions
Employment subsidy from 10 to 15% to the industrial units employing 50% locals. Additional 20% subsidy if 80% locals are employed
‘Hand made in Goa’ branding of handicraft products
Investment promotion board to boost investment
