The Government of Goa has reaffirmed its commitment to achieve 100% implementation of the PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY), a central employment initiative aimed at incentivizing both first-time employees and employers across sectors. This was stated by Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant at an outreach programme organised as part of the Seva Pakhwada campaign, in collaboration with the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), Regional Office Goa, and the Office of the Commissioner, Labour & Employment.
Dr Sawant called upon industrial employers to take full advantage of the PM-VBRY incentives by creating new jobs in their respective units. At the same time, he urged Goan youth to be more proactive in pursuing these opportunities. Referring to a job fair held in Bicholim, he noted that despite over 300 openings, fewer than 100 job-seekers turned up—highlighting a disconnect between job availability and participation. “If locals don’t step up, these opportunities will go to candidates from other states,” he said.
The scheme is divided into two major parts:
Part A – Incentive to First-Time Employees:
Targeting individuals registering with the EPFO for the first time, this provision offers a financial incentive of up to ₹15,000, disbursed in two installments. The first installment is payable after 6 months of continuous service, and the second after 12 months—subject to completion of a financial literacy programme. Employees earning up to ₹1 lakh per month are eligible. To promote saving habits, a portion of this incentive will be placed in a fixed deposit or similar instrument, withdrawable after a defined period.
Part B – Support to Employers:
This component focuses on encouraging businesses—particularly in the manufacturing sector—to hire additional employees. Employers who hire two (for those with <50 employees) or five (for those with ≥50 employees) new workers will receive ₹3,000 per month per employee, for a duration of two years. For manufacturing units, this incentive may extend to the third and fourth years, provided sustained employment is maintained.
Establishments must be EPFO-registered and commit to continued employment for at least six months per new hire to qualify.
With this initiative, the Goa government aims to catalyze economic activity, reduce unemployment, and align with national employment goals. The outreach also reflects the state’s intent to bridge gaps between industry needs and job seeker readiness, offering long-term benefits to both employers and employees.
For updates on implementation and eligibility, residents are encouraged to contact the Labour & Employment Department or visit the EPFO Regional Office, Goa.
