Goa loses Rs 90 cr on lack of IT policy

Lack of an information technology policy is costing the Goa government around Rs 50-90 crore worth business every year.

Industry players feel it is a deciding factor for various firms based in the UK and the US, which are scouting for suitable places to set up operations.

Sandeep Vernekar, managing director, Anant Infomedia Pvt Ltd, who works on solution software, said, "Even our biggest industries have limited software use, and products like ware-housing and industry specific software are not available. Goa is strategically located to cater to these needs for markets like Maharashtra, Karnataka, Bangalore, Pune and other neighbouring states, including Gujarat.

"Other than providing employees with clean environment and safe habitat, the investors will also find a peaceful working condition with a workforce of around 300 graduates every year.''

But with land prices and incentives by government matching with every other state, it is the state IT policy that will make a difference to the attitude of the internationals.

In Goa alone there are 500 small and medium industries, all of which are looking forward to cost cutting, thus getting encouraged to turn to IT. This itself is a Rs 50 crore market,'' he added.

According to official sources, there has been around five companies, other than Wipro, to open operations in the state, but has not made the final decisions as they are waiting for the announcement of the state IT policy.

The US-based Atlanta Infotech is looking for a high end product development set-up with a manpower requirement of around 20-100, while Travel Pack, another UK-based company, is looking for expansion from a workforce of 100 to 400 only with a favourable policy.

Vernekar said, "All these firms have multi-operating points, and will only choose to start operations here if it finds a friendly atmosphere. We from Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry have proposed to the government to make allowances for foreigners coming in for IT business, their children's education and admission to help the working conditions of the professionals."