Panaji: Of the 28 reforms recommended for Goa under the Centre's ease of doing business framework, the state government has implemented 12 recommendations, while 16 reforms remain under discussion and in various phases of implementation within departments. The progress is part of phase II of the national reform exercise, according to a status report dated May 8. While phase I of the reforms was mandatory, phase II is like guidelines, said an official with the Goa Investment Promotion and Facilitation Board.
Implemented Reforms
Among the reforms that the state has achieved is the adoption of the amended Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 2024, cleared by the Goa State Pollution Control Board. This adoption marks a significant step toward environmental compliance and industrial ease.
Reforms Under Discussion
Among the Centre's recommendations are sensitive aspects such as the elimination of the change in land use (CLU) requirements. Two broader reform proposals — a right to business act providing affidavit-based clearances, and an omnibus bill for ease of doing business — remain under debate within the government.
Another reform under debate is whether to allow establishments, including hotels, restaurants, shops, and MSMEs, to start operations based on a self-declaration and without government approvals. The approvals, such as consent to operate, electricity connections, and other permissions, could follow later, said an official. However, concerns about accountability and safety have prompted the government to take a second look at the move to liberalize the process for starting commercial operations.
Rollout and Departmental Load
Eleven reforms have secured agreed action plans and are being rolled out. The reforms span 18 state departments and agencies. The Town and Country Planning Department carries the heaviest load, mapped across multiple priority areas covering land use, industrial clusters, and construction permits.
