VASCO
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday evening asked industries in Goa to work closely with panchayats to boost job opportunities for locals, particularly youth from surrounding areas. He was speaking at the 24th Annual General Meeting of the Verna Industries Association (VIA) at Kesarval-Verna.
Sawant said industries often face criticism over not providing adequate employment to Goans and suggested a structured initiative to bridge this gap.
“There has been a long-standing demand that industries must offer local employment. I want to suggest that VIA take the lead by identifying vacancies that industries may require in the next six months and prepare a list,” said Sawant.
“On a trial basis, VIA can then reach out to at least five nearby panchayats and inform them about these upcoming vacancies. The panchayats can collect resumes and biodata of local candidates, which industries can then consider for interviews and recruitment.”
He emphasised that this initiative could be taken without political involvement, allowing a direct channel between industries and village panchayats.
“Industries can share a list of around 200 vacancies – whether for ITI graduates, engineers, secretaries or other roles – and give locals a fair chance to apply. This will not only help provide jobs but will also build confidence and strengthen ties between industries and village communities,” Sawant added.
The chief minister also encouraged industries to go a step further by motivating students and families from economically weaker sections to prepare for long-term opportunities. “Industries can inform panchayats about the skills they may require in the next five years — for example, engineers, pharmacists or company secretaries. This way, students in Class X and XII can get motivated to pursue the right courses and prepare themselves for stable careers in local industries. It will set a positive trend where locals see a clear career path in their neighbourhood industries,” he said.
Sawant suggested that the initiative could be supported by government departments such as labour and education, in coordination with industries and panchayats.
“If industries, panchayats and departments come together, we can create a new model of cooperation between industry and local communities. This could become a showcase example for other sectors, ensuring a win-win situation for both industries and Goan youth,” he remarked.
The AGM was attended by Industries Minister Mauvin Godinho, GIDC Chairman Alex Reginald Lourenco, VIA President Kalpak Arware, and senior members of the association.
