Women entrepreneurs a priority, kept 30% small ind’l plots for them: Mauvin

Panaji: Industries minister Mauvin Godinho said that women applicants seeking small industrial plots will receive priority over other entrepreneurs to boost women’s participation in Goa’s micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) sector.

Increased inclusion of women in industry will contribute to economic growth and entrepreneurship in the state, Godinho said at the national MSME workshop organised by ASSOCHAM
“The priority is getting women to the fore and encouraging more women entrepreneurs,” he said. “In Goa Industrial Development Corporation, as far as giving smaller plots are concerned, at the last board meeting we passed a resolution that 30% of the plots have to be given to women entrepreneurs, they will get priority.”
He said that the new policy, along with a “missionary zeal” to promote self-employment and enterprise, can propel the state’s economy ahead. Godinho also directed industry officials to intensify their outreach efforts to support small entrepreneurs and self-help groups (SHGs) at the grassroots level.
“During my latest meeting with the industry secretary and the director of industries, I instructed them to fine-tune our approach. We must double our presence among small entrepreneurs and SHGs to ensure they receive adequate support,” the minister said.
“Women entrepreneurs will receive priority in all future industrial plot allocations. If a woman comes forward, she will have greater priority compared to general-category applicants,” Godinho said. He said that the state’s economy is expanding beyond tourism, with the MSME sector playing a vital role in driving growth. “We are implementing policies to simplify business processes, enhance transparency, and promote sustainable development,” he said.
The minister said there is a need for financial and technological support to boost the MSME sector. He told agencies like NABARD and SIDBI to facilitate access to microfinance, research and development, and digital tools. “Lack of awareness and knowledge prevents our youth, entrepreneurs, and women from seizing business opportunities,” he said.