Tag: Goa Chamber of Commerce

Human Interest

GCCI Highlights Urgent Infrastructure and Safety Concerns to South Goa Collector

Tanisha Cardozo

The Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has taken a proactive step toward addressing pressing civic and infrastructure concerns in South Goa by submitting a detailed representation to Ms. Egna Cleetus, IAS, Collector and District Magistrate of South Goa. The initiative reflects GCCI’s growing involvement in ensuring smoother trade logistics, safer roads, and improved living and working conditions for the people of the region.

Led by Shri Chandrakant Gawas, Chairman of the GCCI Logistics Committee, the delegation met with the Collector and outlined a series of critical issues impacting the region’s development. The meeting underscored GCCI’s commitment to public welfare, responsible business, and collaborative governance, with an emphasis on urgent interventions and sustainable solutions.

The representation began by acknowledging the reopening of the Goa–Belgaum Road via Anmod, which had previously caused significant delays and disruptions for trade and commuters. While the reopening was welcomed, GCCI pressed for the completion of the remaining three-kilometre stretch at Ramnagar, highlighting that this small section continues to hinder seamless connectivity.

Concerns around road safety were also strongly raised, particularly the increasing number of accidents at Verna Junction. GCCI requested the deployment of permanent traffic police personnel at the junction to ensure disciplined vehicle movement and prevent future mishaps. In line with improving traffic management, the representation called for better monitoring of heavy vehicles through speed checks, upgraded road signage, dedicated lanes for goods transport, and road safety awareness campaigns.

Infrastructure issues were not limited to roads. GCCI voiced its concern about the deteriorating state of the Old Borim Bridge and requested a status update on the construction of the new bridge. The Chamber also made a strong case for the urgent establishment of dedicated truck terminuses in both North and South Goa to eliminate the chaos of haphazard parking and reduce congestion on key transport routes.

Civic issues such as indiscriminate garbage dumping along Airport Road, Railway Station Road, and national highways were flagged as health and environmental hazards. GCCI stressed the need for regular garbage collection, better waste management protocols, and stricter enforcement against violators.

A special focus was placed on the fishing community’s safety, especially in the wake of a recent boat accident where a fisherman saved 27 lives. GCCI recommended mandatory safety checks for fishing vessels after the monsoon, timely dissemination of weather alerts, the provision of life-saving gear, and periodic mock drills involving all relevant agencies. They also requested that the brave fisherman who undertook the rescue operation be formally recognised and felicitated for his heroic efforts.

The South Goa Collector assured GCCI that these matters would be looked into with urgency and would be brought to the attention of the respective departments for action. She also expressed her appreciation for GCCI’s initiative in taking up civic concerns on behalf of the business community and the public.

GCCI reiterated its readiness to support and collaborate with the district administration and other stakeholders in finding feasible, time-bound solutions to the raised issues. The Chamber reaffirmed its commitment to work towards inclusive development, where industry growth is matched with improved infrastructure and public well-being.

Health

GCCI Hosts Consumer Awareness Program on Patient Safety and Safe Use of Medicines

Tanisha Cardozo

Panjim, 5 October 2025 — In a continued effort to build public awareness around healthcare safety and consumer rights, the Consumer Protection Committee of the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), in collaboration with the Directorate of Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), Goa, hosted a Consumer Awareness Program on the theme “Patient Safety and Safe Use of Medicines.” The event took place on Saturday, 4th October 2025, at the Surendrababu Timblo Convention Hall, GCCI, and was tailored for M.Com Part I students of the Government College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Khandola.

The session was led by Dr Sarita Bhonsle, Coordinator of the Goa Price Monitoring and Resource Unit (PMRU), who focused on educating future professionals about responsible medicine use and the importance of patient safety. Dr Bhonsle outlined the key roles played by the FDA in regulating medicines and ensuring safety for all consumers. She introduced students to critical national initiatives such as the Pharma Sahi Daam app, a government tool that helps users compare medicine prices and make informed, cost-effective choices.

She also spoke about the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras, which are operational across Goa and offer generic medicines at prices significantly lower than branded equivalents—making healthcare more accessible and affordable for the general public. Emphasizing that patient safety is a shared responsibility, Dr Bhonsle urged students to be informed consumers and advocates for transparency in healthcare.

The event commenced with opening remarks from Ms Amita Salatry, Chairperson of the Consumer Protection Committee, GCCI. Ms Melane Rodrigues, Assistant Director, GCCI, introduced the keynote speaker, and the program concluded with a vote of thanks from Mr Sunil Morajkar, Vice Chairman of the Committee. The event was compered by Prof. Subhash Khautankar, Committee Member.

In addition to the main session, students were given a guided tour of the GCCI Secretariat. Mr Sanjay Amonkar, Director General of GCCI, introduced the students to various departments within the Chamber and explained how GCCI supports businesses and consumers across the state. He also offered insights into the current Goods and Services Tax (GST) framework, helping students connect their academic learning to real-world applications.

This initiative by GCCI reflects its ongoing commitment to nurturing informed citizens, future-ready professionals, and a healthier, more empowered society.

EduConnect

Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry Hosts IIFT Students for Trade and Documentation Session

Closed Account

Written by Intern Queeny George M.H , Team Allycaral

The Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) today welcomed a group of 44 students from the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), along with faculty coordinators led by Dr. Siddharth Shankar Rai, for an immersive academic session as part of their port visit programme in Goa.

The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade, established in 1962 under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, is one of India’s premier B-schools with global AACSB accreditation. Renowned for its specialized focus on international trade, the institution places strong emphasis on real-world exposure through industry visits and experiential learning modules.

The session began with a warm welcome by Mr. Kiran Ballikar, Director at GCCI, who introduced the Chamber’s ongoing efforts to support trade and industrial growth in the region. He highlighted the strategic role played by GCCI in promoting Goa’s business interests at a regional and national level.

Following this, Ms. Pallavi Arondekar, Director, GCCI, offered an overview of Goa’s historical trade connections, tracing the state’s long-standing economic linkages across the Indian Ocean and beyond. She also shed light on Goa’s current economic landscape, including tourism, mining, shipping, and manufacturing.

A key highlight of the session was a detailed explanation by Ms. Sanheeta Naik, Information Officer at GCCI, on the process and importance of Certificates of Origin, a critical component in international trade that ensures the authenticity of exported goods. Her explanation was supplemented by an engaging talk from Mr. Bikash Singh, a seasoned expert in global logistics and trade compliance, who discussed the real-world applications of documentation in international trade and the complexities of supply chain regulations.

The event was compered by Ms. Ambika Dhakhenkar, Deputy Director at GCCI, ensuring the smooth flow of the session and coordinating the engaging interactions between speakers and students.

The session concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Dr. Rai, who expressed appreciation to the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry for facilitating a learning-rich experience. He acknowledged the value such industry interactions bring to IIFT students in preparing them for leadership roles in global trade and commerce.

The visit marks another successful academic-industry collaboration and reinforces the role of institutions like GCCI in nurturing future talent in international business.

Finance

GCCI Applauds Historic GST Reforms Aimed at Economic Growth and Social Inclusion

Tanisha Cardozo

The Goa Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI), under the leadership of its President Ms. Pratima Dhond, has expressed strong support for the sweeping Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms announced at the 56th GST Council Meeting. These reforms, hailed as one of the most progressive steps in India’s tax history, aim to simplify the indirect tax structure while promoting inclusive economic growth.

The introduction of a simplified two-slab GST structure — with rates of 5% and 18% — accompanied by a special 40% slab for luxury and sin goods, is expected to bring stability and clarity to the tax regime. GCCI believes this will lead to improved compliance, reduced litigation, and heightened investor and consumer confidence.

Among the most lauded aspects of the reform is the complete removal of GST on all individual life and health insurance policies — a move expected to increase affordability, boost insurance penetration, and strengthen the country’s financial safety net. GCCI considers this a landmark development towards financial inclusion and social security.

In the healthcare sector, the exemption of GST on 33 lifesaving drugs, and reduced rates on others including medical equipment, is expected to reduce the cost burden on citizens and enhance accessibility.

MSMEs, which form the backbone of India’s economy, stand to benefit significantly from reduced compliance burdens and lower tax costs. This boost to competitiveness could further energize employment and innovation in the sector.

The reforms also provide considerable relief to farmers and workers in labor-intensive industries. Reduced GST on tractors, farming equipment, textiles, leather goods, marble, and handicrafts is aimed at reviving rural and artisanal economies.

For households and the common man, daily-use products like soaps, hair oil, milk products, tea, coffee, namkeens, and bicycles now fall under the 5% or NIL tax bracket, improving affordability and encouraging consumption. This is expected to increase demand for discretionary and aspirational products including consumer durables, automobiles, and home appliances — potentially adding 20 to 50 basis points to GDP growth.

The operationalisation of the long-awaited GST Appellate Tribunal is expected to reduce legal disputes and foster ease of doing business. GCCI noted that the reforms address both industry concerns and public needs, maintaining a thoughtful balance. While the government may incur a revenue loss estimated between ₹0.7 to ₹1.8 trillion annually, this is offset by the continued application of the 40% GST rate on luxury and sin goods such as pan masala, aerated drinks, and tobacco.

GCCI President Ms. Dhond summed up the mood, stating, “This across-the-board reform is not only pro-business and pro-consumer, but also pro-society. By making insurance and healthcare affordable, while boosting consumption and competitiveness, the GST reforms will go a long way in strengthening India’s economic growth and socio-economic fabric of our nation.”

These reforms mark a turning point in India’s economic journey — blending fiscal prudence with inclusive growth.

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.