Goa State Logistics and Warehousing Incentives Scheme: Subsidy towards Upgradation in Transportation through Tracking Devices

The Department of Industries, Government of Goa, has introduced the Goa State Logistics and Warehousing Incentives Scheme. One component, "Subsidy towards Upgradation in Transportation through Tracking Devices," offers financial support to transport operators. The objective is to promote the use of modern tracking technology on goods carriers, which is intended to enhance operational efficiency, security, and traceability within Goa's transportation network.

This scheme targets businesses engaged in cargo transportation by land or water within Goa. By covering a portion of the installation cost of tracking devices, the government aims to lessen the financial load on operators and encourage improved logistics infrastructure and service standards. The initiative supports Goa's broader efforts to strengthen its industrial competitiveness and foster a favourable environment for logistics and warehousing.

- **Register on Goa Online Portal**: Go to the Official Web Portal of Goa Online (www.goaonline.gov.in) and select 'Register'. Verify your Email ID and Mobile Number using OTP. Complete the registration form, set up a Login Name and Password, accept the Declaration and Terms & Conditions, and finish the Captcha to complete registration. - **Log in to the Portal**: Access the portal using the Login Name and Password you created. - **Access the Scheme Application**: From the top ribbon, choose 'Services', then 'IT Services', followed by 'Incentives on Logistics and Warehousing Sector'. This directs you to the relevant application form. - **Complete and Submit Application**: Fill in every mandatory field on the application form and upload all required documents. Confirm that all expenses for which reimbursement is sought were incurred after the launch of the Logistics and Warehousing Policy 2023, and that the fleet for tracking device installation has been acquired. Submit the application to obtain a unique registration number, which you should record for future use. - **Query Resolution**: Be ready to address any queries from the DITC about gaps in your application or submitted documents. - **Inspection and Verification**: Allow DITC officials access to inspect your entity and verify records/documents according to their checklist. The inspection report will be posted on the portal for your review.

After the application is submitted, the Directorate of Industries, Trade and Commerce (DITC) checks it for any deficiencies and sends queries to the applicant for resolution. Once the application and supporting documents pass this verification, the DITC assigns an official to carry out an on-site inspection of the entity, cross-checking all records against a verification-cum-recommendation checklist. The inspection report is uploaded to the portal within 48 hours and is visible to the entrepreneur.

Following the inspection, the application is forwarded to the Chief Executive Officer of the Goa Investment Promotion and Facilitation Board (Goa-IPB) for due diligence. After receiving a recommendation from Goa-IPB, the DITC prepares an appraisal note for the Incentive Review Committee, which meets to examine and discuss the application before approving the claim. Based on the committee's recommendations, the DITC then prepares an approval note for the Accounts Department, which disburses the sanctioned incentives to eligible entities in chronological order. The scheme also provides for follow-up inspections by concerned officers every six months to confirm proper utilisation and continued eligibility.