Goa To Launch Green MSME Index, Credit Framework For Industrial Estates

Panaji, Feb 23 (KNN) The Goa government has decided to develop the Goa Green MSME Index (GGMI) and the Goa Green Credits (GGC) Framework for industrial estates to create a performance benchmarking and policy-support tool for assessing the environmental sustainability of MSMEs.

The initiative aims to accelerate the ‘greening’ of the state’s MSME ecosystem through data-driven evaluation and market-linked incentives.

GEDA Submits Proposal to DITC

The Goa Energy Development Authority (GEDA) has submitted a detailed proposal to the Directorate of Industry, Trade and Commerce (DITC) outlining the approach, methodology, implementation strategy, indicative incentives for MSME units and project timelines.

The proposal seeks formal collaboration with DITC to design and roll out a Green Index for industrial estates across the state, reported The Times Of India.

Backed by World Bank-Supported RAMP Programme

The initiative aligns with the Government of India’s Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) programme, supported by the World Bank, which focuses on improving competitiveness, resilience and sustainability of MSMEs.

In Goa, DITC is implementing state-level RAMP initiatives aimed at strengthening industrial ecosystems, promoting innovation and embedding sustainability into MSME operations.

Acknowledging that MSMEs are central to Goa’s growth yet constrained in adopting sustainable practices, the programme focuses on water and energy audits, the creation of a Green Index, and the development of a Green Credit Model to support the transition.

Green Index and Green Credits: A Dual Approach

Officials said the two frameworks are complementary: the Green MSME Index (GGMI) will serve as a benchmarking and policy tool to measure environmental performance, while Goa Green Credits (GGC) will function as a market-based incentive mechanism that rewards MSMEs for improving sustainability outcomes.

“Together, these initiatives will build the foundation for data-driven, incentive-linked greening of Goa’s MSME sector, aligning with the Goa Industrial Growth and Investment Promotion Policy, 2022,” a senior government officer said.

Digital-First MRV-Based Framework

The proposed GGMI will function as a digital-first, Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV)-backed benchmarking system for MSMEs operating within Goa’s industrial estates.

It will serve as a standardised mechanism to measure environmental performance, report sustainability metrics, verify compliance and classify MSMEs across key sustainability parameters.

The framework aims to ensure transparency, scalability and explainability, helping Goa’s industrial estates transition toward low-carbon and sustainable development pathways while enhancing MSME competitiveness.

(KNN Bureau)