Goa government unveils draft IT policy

Goa government today unveiled its draft Information Technology (IT) policy that aims to establish Goa as animation, visual effects, gaming and comics (AVGC) hub.
The draft IT investment policy, launched during the two-day IT investors conference that began here today, targets to make Goa the most preferred destination for investors in the sectors of IT, Information Technology Enabled Services (ITES) and Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) that will lead to inclusive growth and employment generation.
Under the policy, the government has proposed 100 per cent reimbursement in stamp duty, electricity duty, central sales tax, entry tax along with 10 per cent reimbursement on salaries paid to the local employment upto 80 per cent.

"The state government is committed for overall development of IT/ITES and ESDM industry in the state, with specialised focus on remote and under developed areas of the state. Goa is an ideal destination for IT industries owing to its inherently non-polluting nature," the policy document read.
Pitching for the investments, the government cited excellent air, rail, road connectivity and highly literate English speaking population as key factors to set up businesses.
The policy, with thrust on creating world-class IT infrastructure in Goa, aims at making Goa an AVGC hub as its rich cultural ethos and artistic traditions with strong base in Tourism and entertainment combined with robust IT are conducive for the same.

It said the government also intends to promote AVGC Park with the industry enjoying all sops as offered to any other IT industry.

Government has proposed setting up of Electronic Manufacturing Cluster (EMC) in the village of Tuem of Pernem taluka, five km from highway (NH17) and nearly 6 km from Pernem railway station.
The site is approximately 40 km from Dabolim airport and Marmagoa port and 13 km from proposed Mopa international airport.
The proposed site for IT Park at Chimbel village of Tiswadi taluka is around 4 km from Panjim city, 9 km from nearest railway station and about 24 km from Dabolim airport and Marmagoa port.