Panaji: Goa Governor P.S. Sreedharan Pillai addressed the 8th session of the Goa Legislative Assembly on Thursday, outlining the state government’s key achievements and future plans across various sectors.
Economic Growth and Mining Revival
The Governor emphasized Goa’s strong economic performance, with the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) estimated at ₹1,21,309.02 crore for 2024-25, reflecting a 13.87% growth. The state also recorded Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows of USD 174.79 million from October 2019 to September 2024.
To boost revenue, the government has approved the Goa Iron Ore Mining Dump Handling Policy, 2023, allowing the e-auction of unclaimed iron ore heaps on private land. Additionally, 18 low-grade mining dumps, estimated at 52 million tons, have been put up for auction. Eleven mining blocks have been auctioned, with two operational and more expected to start soon.
Infrastructure and Connectivity Developments
Highlighting Goa’s infrastructure progress, the Governor announced the completion of 220 projects worth ₹1,438.99 crore and 12 projects under the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC) worth ₹480.49 crore. Major projects include the commissioning of India’s first cable-stayed bridge on a curve and road network enhancements worth ₹750.52 crore.
The government is also prioritizing power infrastructure, with ₹1,130.67 crore allocated for converting overhead electric systems to underground cabling. Renewable energy initiatives, including subsidies for residential solar rooftops under the PM Suryaghar Muft Bijli Yojana, are also underway.
Employment and MSME Growth
The state saw 11,766 new MSMEs registered in 2024-25, with an employment potential of 44,008 jobs. Under various employment schemes, ₹81.03 lakh in subsidies has been disbursed, and the Chief Minister’s Rozgar Yojana has provided ₹255.04 crore in loans to nearly 7,900 beneficiaries.
Welfare and Social Sector Initiatives
The Governor highlighted progress in education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment. Goa aims to fully implement the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 by 2030, while the CM Suvidya Scheme is upgrading school infrastructure.
Healthcare initiatives include the expansion of Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts (ABHA), malaria elimination targets for 2025, and ₹20.53 crore spent under the Deen Dayal Swasthya Seva Yojana. Goa also became the first state to offer rapid TB diagnosis and treatment under the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.
Tourism and Digital Goa Initiative
With a 21% increase in tourist arrivals in 2024, the government has launched digital initiatives, including free public WiFi at 75 locations and the Let’s Goa tourism portal. Plans are also underway to establish a Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Digital Museum at Farmagudi with ₹97.46 crore in central funding.
The Governor concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to Viksit Bharat, Viksit Goa 2047, urging legislators to support policies that drive inclusive development.
