PANAJI
Goa has emerged as the fourth most investment friendly State among States and Union Territories in the NITI Aayog Investment Friendliness Index 2026.
The report placed Goa among just five “Top Performers” nationwide, awarding it an overall score of 53.1 out of 100. The index assessed all 36 States and UTs across eight parameters, including infrastructure, business climate, regulatory framework, institutional capacity, financial health, government policy and environmental resilience.
According to the report, Goa’s strongest performance came in Regulatory Ease, where it scored 71 percent, followed by Institutional Environment (66 percent), Financial Health (61 percent), and Infrastructure and Resources (56 percent each).
The State also performed above the national average in Business Climate and Government Policy, scoring above the national benchmark in seven of the eight pillars assessed.
The report attributed Goa’s strong performance to its robust regulatory framework, institutional efficiency, infrastructure, financial management and skilled human resource base.
Goa also stood out for its investment in human capital as the report noted that the State recorded the highest expenditure on skilling and healthcare as a percentage of Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) within its category. Nearly one-fourth of students enrolled in higher education are pursuing STEM courses, while Goa ranked first among city States and Union Territories in both STEM enrolment share and vocational training capacity.
The index highlighted Goa's connectivity advantages, noting that its two international airports account for nearly three percent of India's airport capacity despite the State contributing only about 0.35 percent to the national GDP. Its ports similarly account for around three percent of the country's port capacity and include dedicated facilities for container, dry bulk and petroleum cargo.
The report also recognised Goa's progress in clean energy, stating that the State has the highest share of renewable energy in its power mix among all States and UTs. Transmission and distribution losses remain at around seven per cent, while businesses surveyed cited reliable electricity, minimal outages, strong road and rail connectivity, warehousing facilities and the availability of skilled manpower as key strengths.
The State government said it pursued a development approach focused on stronger infrastructure, skilled human resources, regulatory efficiency, connectivity and clean energy. “NITI Aayog’s recognition reflects the coordinated efforts of the government to build a transparent, efficient and future-ready investment ecosystem. Goa will continue building on this achievement to attract responsible investment, generate quality employment and create greater opportunities for Goan youth,” it said.
