Inspectors, solar surveillance and integrated digital system to strengthen enforcement
PANAJI
In a multi-pronged push to strengthen waste management, environmental research and scientific education in the State, the government on Friday announced key measures including the appointment of Waste Management Inspectors to curb illegal garbage dumping, installation of solar-powered surveillance cameras, and the launch of an integrated digital platform to streamline waste operations across Goa.
The government said the measures are aimed at improving monitoring, enforcement and coordination in waste management while also promoting research, innovation and environmental awareness in the State.
“To tackle the menace of illegal garbage dumping, the government proposed to strengthen the Goa Waste Management Corporation (GWMC) by appointing Waste Management Inspectors in designated areas. These inspectors will also be provided incentives to enforce garbage management laws and regulations and ensure better compliance and cleanliness,” Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said in the State Budget 2026-27.
The Budget proposes to launch an Integrated Digital Operations Platform through GWMC by bringing together multiple waste management activities such as highway waste clearance, RDF movement and tracking, dry waste collection systems and scheduling mechanisms under a single digital environmental management system.
In another initiative, the State will install solar-powered cameras to monitor garbage dumping and segregation. “The cameras, which will run on clean energy, will help strengthen surveillance, particularly in remote and off-grid areas. The government has earmarked Rs 2 crore for the project,” Sawant said.
The government further proposed to establish a Centre of Excellence in waste management, which will provide training to institutions from across India and position Goa as a knowledge hub in the sector. The government will also develop a Centralised Digital Research Portal through the Goa State Innovation Council that will compile research publications from universities, colleges and research and development institutions in Goa and promote the State’s research at national and international levels.
Starting this year, the government will also introduce a lecture series on Astronomy and Space Science for high school students to encourage scientific learning and curiosity among young learners.
In addition, the State plans to implement a plastic-free policy by introducing 100 per cent compostable and biodegradable bags across all industrial sectors as part of its efforts to promote sustainable practices.
