Ponda, Goa | July 4, 2026
Goa’s leading industry associations have jointly welcomed the decision to establish the permanent campus of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Goa at Farmagudi, Ponda, within the existing Goa Engineering College (GEC) campus, describing it as a landmark step that will strengthen Goa’s education ecosystem and drive long-term industrial growth.
The joint statement was issued by the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Goa State Industries Association (GSIA), Madkai Industrial Estate Association (MIEA), and Kundaim Industrial Estate Association (KIEA).
The associations noted that the decision finally brings closure to nearly a decade-long efforts to establish a permanent home for IIT Goa, which has been operating from temporary facilities at GEC since 2016. Earlier proposals for alternate locations had faced delays due to land acquisition issues and public opposition.
Welcoming the announcement, Pratima Dhond, President, GCCI, said the permanent campus would encourage stronger partnerships between industry and academia while creating a steady pipeline of highly skilled engineers for Goa’s industries.
Pradip Da Costa, President, GSIA, described the decision as one of the biggest catalysts for industrial development in Goa. He observed that locating the institute within the existing GEC campus avoids previous land-related challenges and allows IIT Goa to plan confidently for long-term expansion.
Representing the Madkai Industrial Estate Association, Sohan Kelekar highlighted that industries would benefit significantly through student projects, research collaborations, innovation initiatives and technology transfer.
Similarly, Sandesh Dhareshwar, President of Kundaim Industrial Estate Association, said industries in the Kundaim region would gain easier access to research support, internships and a skilled workforce, creating stronger links between academia and manufacturing.
The associations also emphasised several long-term benefits arising from the project. They pointed out that establishing the campus within the existing GEC premises eliminates fresh land acquisition disputes while creating opportunities for research partnerships, engineering talent development and innovation for Goa’s MSME sector.
They further noted that a permanent IIT campus would generate significant ancillary economic activity, including demand for housing, services, hospitality and local businesses across the Ponda region and neighbouring industrial estates.
According to the associations, the project will also strengthen Goa’s position as an education, research and innovation destination, enhancing the state’s attractiveness for future investments and high-value employment opportunities.
Addressing concerns regarding demographic changes, the industry bodies clarified that educational institutions do not permanently alter the local population profile, as students reside in the region only during the duration of their academic programmes.
The four organisations urged both the State and Central Governments to expedite the remaining approvals and construction process so that IIT Goa can shift into its permanent campus at the earliest. They also expressed their willingness to extend full industry support in facilitating the successful implementation of the project.
The joint statement was issued by Pratima Dhond (GCCI), Pradip Da Costa (GSIA), Sohan Kelekar (MIEA), and Sandesh Dhareshwar (KIEA).
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