Goa: Trade and Commerce | Goa State PSC (GPSC) Preparation - GPSC (Goa) PDF Download

Introduction

• Goa, located on the west coast of India, boasts impressive socio-economic indicators. Over time, the structure of economic activities evolves due to shifts in production and demand within the economy. Multiple sectors contribute significantly to the state's trade and commerce.
• The Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) at constant (2011-12) prices for 2015-16 (Quick Estimates) is estimated to be over ₹37,520 crore, compared to ₹34,611 crore in 2014-15 (Provisional Estimates), indicating a growth rate of 8.41% compared to 9.64% in 2014-15.

Trade and Commerce through Industries

• Goa's major trade activities revolve around the industrial sector, which has been rapidly expanding. This growth is attributed to the focus on creating sustainable employment opportunities, particularly for the local population.
• The industrial development in Goa emphasizes environmentally friendly practices, aiming for balanced regional growth and fostering a conducive environment for both existing and new industries to thrive.

Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)

• The Government of India implemented the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development Act in 2006, categorizing industrial units as per their investments in plant and machinery into Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

Goa Investment Facilitation & Promotion Board (Goa-IPB)

• The Government of Goa has implemented the Goa Investment Promotion Act of 2014 to streamline the process for investors looking to invest in Goa.
• Under this act, the Goa Investment Promotion and Facilitation Board, a statutory body, was established to expedite the approval of investment proposals exceeding 5 crore.

Handicrafts of Goa

• The Goa Handicraft, Rural and Small Scale Industries Development Corporation Ltd (GHRSSIDC) focuses on creating self-employment opportunities through various training programs and schemes.
• Eligible women are supported with resources like sewing machines and tools to pursue embroidery and tailoring as a means of self-employment.

Khadi & Village Industries

• The Goa Khadi and Village Industries Board is a statutory body dedicated to promoting Village Industries in alignment with the Khadi & Village Industries Commission, Mumbai.
• Financial assistance for implementing different schemes is provided by KVIC, Mumbai.

Mining Industry

• The state oversees the administration of major and minor minerals, which includes the granting and renewal of reconnaissance permits, prospecting licenses, and mining leases under the Mines and Minerals Development and Regulation (MMDR) Act. Additionally, quarrying leases are granted and renewed according to the Goa Minor Mineral Concession Rules of 1985.
• The government has been conducting e-auctions for the mineral ore stacks located at various mines and stack yards. From February 17, 2014, to January 31, 2017, eight e-auctions have been held, covering 11.38 million tonnes of mineral ore.
• A total of 89 renewal orders were issued, with 87 mining lease deeds executed. The adhoc production limit of 20 million tonnes has been distributed among these leases. Following the lifting of the mining ban, 44 iron ore leases and one manganese lease have resumed mining operations.

Recent Developments in Industries, Mines, Employment & Information Technology

• Significant emphasis is placed on fostering environmentally friendly, green, and locally sustainable industries that align with Goa's unique environment. These industries are expected to attract substantial investment and create numerous job opportunities for local youth.
• The government is prioritizing the ease of doing business in Goa by minimizing regulations and implementing a business reform action plan. The aim is to position Goa among the top 10 Indian states through an e-governance platform that integrates and synergizes all government departments and entities in the state.
• The Goa IT Investment Policy 2015 prioritizes the promotion of local entrepreneurship and innovation, with a strong focus on marketing Goa as an ideal destination for startups and mid-sized technology companies. This will be achieved through collaborations with leading Indian IT states and global brands in technological innovation and funding. Additionally, a startup promotion board will be established during this financial year to support the IT sector.
• A new proposal aims to upgrade Goa's IT infrastructure to provide high-speed broadband connectivity across the entire state within the next two years.
• There is a need to enhance apprentice training, in line with recent amendments to the Apprenticeship Act. This training helps youth acquire practical skills and experience in their chosen trades. The government is supporting this scheme through financial and logistical assistance. Additionally, the board established for entrepreneurship training and skill development will be responsible for creating relevant schemes.

Tourism sector

• Goa, renowned for its scenic beauty, is a paradise nestled between the sea and lush greenery, making it a dream destination for millions of travelers worldwide. Its shimmering sands, exotic beaches, architectural marvels of temples, churches, historic houses, and rich cultural heritage have made it a popular global leisure destination, attracting both domestic and international tourists.
• To further promote Goa as an ideal tourist destination, several initiatives and tourism infrastructure projects have been undertaken to enhance the state's capacity to accommodate visitors. In 2016 (January to December), Goa welcomed 63.31 lakh tourists (Provisional), including 56.50 lakh domestic and 6.81 lakh foreign tourists, compared to 52.98 lakh tourists during the same period in the previous year. This represents a 19.50% growth in tourist arrivals in 2016 compared to 2015, although the growth rate was slightly lower than the 30.55% increase seen in 2015.

Recent Tourism Initiatives in Goa

• To protect the Galjibaag and Morjim beaches, recognized as important marine turtle nesting sites, a dedicated management master plan has been developed. This plan aims to ensure the highest level of protection, conservation, and sustainable development for these turtle nesting areas.
• To promote eco-tourism and highlight Goa's rich bird diversity, the Forest Department has organized a bird festival at Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. The plan is to hold this festival annually, with the upcoming event scheduled to take place at Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary in Canacona, attracting bird watchers to the state.
• The government will introduce portable toilet facilities and permanent toilets connected to sewage treatment plants on all major beaches in North Goa. This initiative aims to enhance the Swachh Bharat campaign and provide modern hygiene facilities for tourists.
• To ensure effortless travel and an exceptional experience for tourists, the government will launch five double-decker and five single-decker hop-on-hop-off (HOHO) bus services in North Goa's tourist circuit during the 2017-18 financial year, through the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC). Additionally, an amphibious bus service will be launched to offer tourists a comprehensive experience of Goa's backwaters while effectively utilizing the state's inland waters for high-end tourism.
• The government plans to convert the former Fort Aguada Jail complex into a monument that highlights Goa's Freedom Struggle, complete with facilities for a daily sound and light laser show for tourists.
• Tourism at Mayem Lake is proposed, with plans to rejuvenate the lake and construct a theme park around it. By attracting private investment, this initiative aims to promote family and hinterland tourism in the area.
• To promote heli-tourism in the state, provisions have been made to construct a mini helipad at the existing helipad in Dhauji, Old Goa. This development is expected to generate jobs for local youth and enhance high-end tourism facilities.