Tag: ViksitBharat2047

Business

GCCI Welcomes Union Budget 2026–27, Calls It a Major Boost to India’s Economy

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Goa | February 1, 2026:
The Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has welcomed the Union Budget 2026–27, terming it a major boost to India’s economy and a positive step towards sustainable and inclusive growth.

GCCI organised a live viewing of the Union Budget presented by the Hon’ble Union Finance Minister, followed by a press conference where leading representatives from Goa’s business and industrial community shared their insights on the Budget’s implications for the state and the nation.

Welcoming the Budget, Mrs. Pratima Dhond, President, GCCI, said that the Budget is growth-oriented and addresses the aspirations of the common people while reinforcing the vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas. She highlighted targeted interventions across six key areas, including rejuvenation of legacy industries, creation of champion MSMEs, infrastructure development, long-term economic security, city economic regions, and industry-led research and training centres to build a skilled workforce. She also noted that initiatives such as Bharat Vistar, a multilingual AI tool integrating the agri-stack, and the establishment of She Marts will empower women entrepreneurs.

Mr. Yatin Kakodkar, Vice-President, GCCI, described the Budget as progressive and forward-looking, reflecting India’s readiness for the next phase of growth. He appreciated the Government’s success in maintaining the fiscal deficit at around 4% and welcomed the focus on infrastructure, SMEs, tourism, waterways, east–west corridors, and medical tourism, all of which are expected to directly benefit Goa’s economy.

Dr. Sangam Kurade, Vice-President, GCCI, observed that the projected growth of 7.4% is a result of earlier policy announcements. He stated that proposals related to tourism, youth skilling, hospitality institutes, upskilling of manpower, and promotion of the orange economy will significantly benefit Goa.

Mr. Manguirish Pai Raikar, Past President, GCCI, noted that the Budget builds upon previous reforms and contributes meaningfully to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. He emphasised that Goa must effectively leverage opportunities arising from tourism and youth-focused schemes to scale its economy further.

Representing the taxation and financial services perspective, Mr. Raghunath Bhanap, Secretary, GCCI and Chairman, Taxation & Financial Services Committee, highlighted several reform-oriented measures, including reduced import dependency, strengthened MSMEs, mandatory PSU procurement through TReDS-registered suppliers, integration of GeM with TReDS, reduced TCS on foreign tours, PAN replacing TAN in several processes, and treating receivables as assets for improved credit flow. He stressed that timely implementation will be key.

Mr. Vishwabhan Bhopte welcomed simplification measures under the Income Tax framework, including centralised filing of Form 15H, revised filing timelines, and simplified return forms, stating that these will reduce compliance burden for taxpayers.

Mr. Shripad Parab, President, AGTPA, observed that the Budget aligns with projected growth estimates and fiscal deficit targets. He welcomed reduced TCS, simplified income tax procedures, new schemes for small taxpayers, and the ambitious GST revenue target.

Overall, GCCI leaders expressed optimism that the Union Budget 2026–27 will drive economic growth, promote innovation, strengthen the business ecosystem, and positively impact Goa and the nation.

Events in Goa

Goa Government to Observe ‘Seva Pakhwada’ from September 17 to October 2

Tanisha Cardozo

The Government of Goa has announced that it will observe Seva Pakhwada, a 16-day initiative from September 17 to October 2, 2025, to mark the birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This nation-wide campaign aims to promote participatory governance and amplify key development missions under the Central Government.

The Chief Minister of Goa stated that the Seva Pakhwada initiative is a platform to showcase the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and reflect Goa’s ongoing commitment to sustainable development and public service. A variety of impactful activities will be conducted across the state during this period.

Key highlights of the campaign include cleanliness drives under the Swachh Bharat mission, tree plantation drives to promote environmental awareness, and seminars and awareness sessions aimed at familiarizing citizens with flagship government schemes. There will also be strong focus on the ‘Vocal for Local’ movement, encouraging citizens to support homegrown products, artisans, and small-scale entrepreneurs.

The campaign will also serve as a platform to reach out to people at the grassroots level, encouraging participation in government programs and celebrating India’s vision for 2047 as it moves toward becoming a developed and self-reliant nation.

The initiative aligns with national goals while maintaining a strong focus on local implementation, with the Goa Government taking proactive steps to ensure wide outreach and participation.

Citizens, institutions, and civil society members are invited to join hands during Seva Pakhwada and contribute to the cause through voluntary action, public engagement, and social service.

TechPulse

Goa Launches Mahila Digital Sashaktikaran Yojana to Empower Rural Women with Digital Skills

Tanisha Cardozo

Porvorim, August 7, 2025: With an eye on inclusion and innovation, the Government of Goa has launched the Mahila Digital Sashaktikaran Yojana, a transformative scheme that aims to digitally empower women, particularly in rural and underserved areas of the state.

The scheme was officially launched at the PAC Hall, Secretariat, by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, along with Minister for ITE&C Rohan A. Khaunte, and dignitaries from Info Tech Corporation of Goa Ltd. (ITG) and the Directorate of IT.

“We are taking digital literacy to the Gramin women ensuring they are equipped with the confidence and skills to navigate today’s digital world,” said Dr. Sawant.

🎯 Why This Scheme Matters

As digital technologies increasingly shape economies and services, the gap between those with access and those without is growing. Women in rural areas often find themselves on the wrong side of this divide. This scheme directly addresses that gap by providing:

  • Essential digital literacy: Using smartphones, browsing the internet, accessing government schemes and financial tools.
  • Localized training: Conducted in familiar, accessible public venues such as panchayat halls, schools, or religious buildings.

Empowerment through knowledge: Digital fluency is linked to better financial independence, access to opportunities, and self-confidence.

🧑‍💻 Who Can Apply?

  • Women aged 18 and above
  • Must be a resident of Goa for 15+ years

Open to all educational and socioeconomic backgrounds

🏫 Where & How Will Training Be Conducted?

Training will be facilitated through:

  • Empanelled IT Knowledge Centres (ITKCs)
  • Common Service Centres (CSCs)
  • Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs)

Classes will be hosted in accessible locations such as schools, panchayat halls, or community spaces.

💸 Scheme Benefits & Financial Provisions

  • ₹500 per participant allocated to cover training program
    • 80% to training partner (CSC/ITKC)
    • 20% to ITG
  • ₹100 additional per person to CSCs/VLEs for sessions in public spaces (infrastructure support)

Three-year validity, with potential for renewal

💬 Government’s Vision

Rohan Khaunte, Minister for ITE&C, stated:

“This initiative supports Viksit Bharat 2047 and our goal of women-led development. By empowering women with digital skills, we open pathways to income generation, confidence, and active participation in the digital economy.”

🌐 Looking Ahead

The launch of the Mahila Digital Sashaktikaran Yojana is part of Goa’s broader vision to become a digitally inclusive and economically equitable state. With strong government support and a clear implementation plan, this initiative is poised to transform the lives of thousands of women—one screen, one skill, and one empowered choice at a time.

EduConnect

Release of “Voice of MES” & Interactive Session on Viksit Bharat 2047

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Margao, Goa | June 2025 – MES College of Arts & Commerce proudly marked a momentous occasion with the official release of the “Voice of MES” newsletter, followed by an insightful interactive session on Viksit Bharat 2047. The event brought together thought leaders, academic minds, and the MES community to reflect on India’s future and the role of educational institutions in nation-building.

Voice of MES: A Platform for Expression and Excellence

The latest edition of Voice of MES was unveiled by esteemed dignitaries and members of the MES management. The newsletter showcases the vibrant academic, cultural, and co-curricular activities of the college, along with student achievements, faculty contributions, and campus initiatives. It continues to serve as a dynamic platform for the MES community to share knowledge, creativity, and innovation.

Interactive Session: Viksit Bharat 2047

In alignment with India’s visionary roadmap for its centenary of independence, an engaging session on Viksit Bharat 2047 was conducted. The initiative sparked meaningful discussion on how young minds and institutions can contribute to a developed India by 2047.

Key Speakers:

  • Mr. Vinay Saxena, Director of Planning, Statistics, and Evaluation, Government of Goa, presented a macro-level view of development goals and key policy initiatives shaping India’s future. He emphasized data-driven governance, sustainable growth, and youth participation.
  • Dr. Radhakrishnan Agarwal, renowned motivational speaker and author of Corporate Chanakya, energized the audience with his trademark insights on leadership, strategy, and innovation in education and governance. Drawing parallels between ancient wisdom and modern challenges, Dr. Agarwal inspired students to think big and act with purpose.
  • Mrs. Lalita Joshi, a senior representative of MES College, welcomed the guests and moderated the session, highlighting the institution’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and national responsibility among students.

Looking Ahead

The event reinforced MES College’s dedication to holistic education and its active role in India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation by 2047. Students were encouraged to engage with national development agendas and contribute meaningfully to society through knowledge, innovation, and service.