Panaji, May 30 — To reduce the recruitment of workers from other states in industrial estates, the Goa government plans to amend its labour law, imposing heavy penalties on companies that violate these regulations, Labour Minister Atanasio Monserrate announced.
Last week, opposition pressure forced two pharmaceutical companies to cancel walk-in interviews scheduled in Maharashtra. Monserrate explained that the current low penalty for non-compliance, just Rs 500, fails to enforce the law effectively.
“Whenever companies have openings, they should first notify the employment exchange so we can recommend eligible candidates. Companies often neglect this requirement due to the minimal penalty,” Monserrate said.
To address this issue, Monserrate intends to propose amendments to significantly increase the penalties for non-compliance. He plans to meet Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to discuss these changes.
“It is the duty of companies, especially in the pharma sector, to inform the government before advertising vacancies in Maharashtra,” Monserrate added.
Chief Minister Sawant echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for Goan youth to secure permanent jobs. He stated, “Our intention is clear: Goan youth should get permanent jobs, not temporary ones. If the current policy needs amendment, we will address it in the forthcoming assembly session.”
Goa hosts 24 industrial estates where local youth, as well as workers from Karnataka, Maharashtra, and other states, are employed. The proposed amendments aim to ensure that Goan residents are prioritized in local job markets.
