GIDC To Develop Green Index, Credit Framework For MSMEs, Industrial Estates

Panaji, Jun 15 (KNN) The Goa Industrial Development Corporation (GIDC) has been awarded a Rs 1 crore project by the Directorate of Industries, Trade and Commerce (DITC) to develop a Green Index and a Green Credit Model for industrial estates and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the state. 

Funded under the central government’s Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) programme — a World Bank-supported scheme under the Ministry of MSME — the project has already received an advance of Rs 40 lakh. A formal agreement between the two parties is being finalised, TOI reported.

In Goa, the RAMP scheme is being implemented by the industries department with a total outlay of Rs 61.6 crore for FY 2024-25 to FY 2026-27. Under the state's approved strategic investment plan, Rs 50 lakh each may be allocated for the Green Index and the Green Credit Model.

What the Two Frameworks Entail

The Green Index will establish a comprehensive evaluation framework to assess industrial estates on parameters including energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, pollution control and biodiversity preservation. 

GIDC's existing presence in industrial estates and access to estate-level data are expected to support the framework's design and rollout.

The Green Credit Model will create a structured mechanism to assess the environmental performance of MSMEs, issue tradable green credits and facilitate transactions between MSME units. The model will draw on GIDC's experience in industrial compliance and its administrative infrastructure.

Implementation Plan

GIDC plans to engage a consultant through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal in line with procurement norms. The consultant will be engaged for one year to assist in developing both frameworks. 

The proposal was discussed at a recent GIDC board meeting attended by Industries Minister Mauvin Godinho and GIDC Chairman Aleixo Reginaldo Lourenco.

(KNN Bureau)