Tag: Goa business news

Business

Alcoholic Beverage Industry Urges Goa Government to Defer Deposit Refund System

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Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral 

Industry associations from the alcoholic beverage sector have appealed to the Goa government to postpone the implementation of the proposed Deposit Refund System (DRS), raising concerns over its readiness and feasibility within the stipulated timeframe.


According to industry representatives, the current timeline for rolling out the DRS is too short for manufacturers, distributors and retailers to put the necessary infrastructure in place. They argue that implementing the system without adequate preparation could disrupt supply chains and create logistical challenges across the state.

The Deposit Refund System is aimed at improving waste management and boosting recycling rates by levying a refundable deposit on beverage containers. Consumers receive the deposit amount back upon returning the empty bottles or cans to designated collection points.

However, industry bodies claim that several operational aspects — including reverse logistics, storage facilities, barcode integration, retailer onboarding and consumer awareness — require more clarity and time before full-scale implementation.

Stakeholders have called for a phased rollout or an extended transition period to allow businesses to adapt smoothly. They emphasised that while the industry supports sustainable waste management initiatives, the framework must be practical and economically viable.

The Goa government is yet to respond formally to the industry’s request, but discussions are expected as stakeholders push for a balanced approach between environmental goals and business feasibility.

TechPulse

Goa-Based Tech Firm Kilowott to Drive Development in Norway’s Gjøvik Region

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Written by Intern Rency Gomes ||Team Allycaral 

Panaji, February 2026: Goa-based digital transformation firm Kilowott is set to contribute to development initiatives in Norway’s Gjøvik region as part of a strategic collaboration with Gjøvikregionen, a government-backed regional development organisation.


To advance the initiative, Kilowott’s Co-founder Judah Fernandez and Strategic Outreach Partner Sheraline Rocha visited Norway in January for a series of high-level discussions.

The visit focused on building long-term strategic collaboration between industry stakeholders and regional institutions, with emphasis on leveraging Kilowott’s presence in Norway and the broader Nordic region. Discussions centered around talent development, innovation ecosystems and value creation through closer coordination between academia, public bodies and industry.
Key Stakeholders Involved
Meetings were held with representatives from:
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU Gjøvik)
Gjøvik Kommune
Mustad Næringspark
Frostrøyk idé & design

The parties explored co-designing and piloting micro-credential programmes aimed at helping students and early professionals transition smoothly from academic settings into fast-paced technology and innovation-driven workplaces.

Rocha described the engagement as productive and forward-looking.

> “The discussions focused on flexible, practical learning formats delivered digitally or through hands-on workshops, aligned closely with real-world industry needs. This initiative reflects Gjøvikregionen’s mission to strengthen the region’s business ecosystem and enhance access to skilled talent,” she said.

Fernandez noted that the vision aligns with Kilowott’s expertise in delivering short, industry-relevant programmes in areas such as agile practices, artificial intelligence applications and scalable technology solutions.

The visit comes at a time when India and Norway are actively working to strengthen economic cooperation, positioning such cross-border collaborations as important drivers of innovation, talent mobility and regional growth.

The outreach further strengthens Kilowott’s footprint in the Nordic region and underscores the growing role of Indo-Norwegian partnerships in shaping education-to-industry pathways and regional development.

Business

GCCI Celebrates 117 Years of Shaping Goa’s Economic Landscape

Tanisha Cardozo

The Goa Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI), established on 3rd September 1908, proudly celebrates 117 years of unwavering service to Goa’s economy. As one of India’s oldest regional chambers, GCCI has been a constant in the state’s transformation—from the Portuguese colonial period to post-liberation development. Over more than a century, it has consistently advocated for pro-business policies, strengthened Goa’s industrial base, and nurtured its social fabric.

Under the leadership of its first-ever woman President, Mrs. Pratima Dhond, the Chamber steps into its 118th year with renewed energy and direction. Throughout its journey, GCCI has been a dynamic bridge between businesses and government, influencing policy, infrastructure, and institutional development. Its contributions span diverse sectors including trade, tourism, shipping, mining, manufacturing, IT, and sustainability.

Central to GCCI’s mission is support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs)—the bedrock of Goa’s economy. Through mentoring, training workshops, and strategic partnerships with institutions like GIM and EDC, the Chamber has built a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. Its Women’s Wing continues to empower women-led enterprises through signature events such as Asturi and Business Diva. Initiatives like the ‘Leaders@GCCI’ series have brought national thinkers to the state, encouraging dialogue that connects local challenges to global trends.

GCCI is also deeply invested in sustainable business practices and has played a proactive role in aligning academic programs with industry needs. A notable initiative is the launch of the B.Com (Retail) course at S S Dempo College, enabled by GCCI’s Retail Committee, highlighting its commitment to skill development.

Among its milestone contributions, GCCI’s involvement in formulating the Goa IT Policy and supporting infrastructure like the Manohar International Airport at Mopa has been pivotal. Through MoUs with international chambers, GCCI continues to foster global business linkages and knowledge exchange.

As it moves forward, GCCI remains committed to driving inclusive and sustainable growth. With a focus on women-led enterprises, innovation, and strategic collaboration, the Chamber reaffirms its role as a key driver of Goa’s progress and a symbol of enduring leadership.