Panaji: GIDC will create plug-and-play office and research spaces at the Hello World Innovation & Research Park within the industrial ecosystem at Verna, with the aim of creating 35,000 white-collar jobs. The corporation is counting on these facilities to enable manufacturing companies at Verna to relocate suitable research and office-based functions from their factory premises, while using industrial plots more efficiently for manufacturing and production expansion.“The proximity of research teams, technology companies and manufacturing enterprises can also encourage collaboration, innovation, process improvement and adoption of advanced technologies across the Verna industrial estate,” said a GIDC official.Industries minister Mauvin Godinho said the Hello World tech park is expected to support around 35,000 high-technology, white-collar jobs. “Our objective is to ensure that Goan youth do not have to leave the state merely to build successful professional careers,” said Godinho.GIDC has allotted three of the six large plots at the Hello World Innovation & Research Park, which is spread across approximately 4 lakh sqm at the tail-end of Phase IV of the Verna industrial estate. According to GIDC, at least 80% of the built-up area is reserved for office space for specified technology and research sectors. Commercial space is restricted to between 7% and 10%.“Verna has developed into Goa’s strongest manufacturing ecosystem. Hello World will complement this base by providing modern, plug-and-play spaces for research, design, technology and product development. Existing manufacturers can move suitable research and office functions out of their factory premises and use their limited industrial land to expand production. At the same time, the park will create white-collar opportunities for Goan youth and help reverse the outmigration of talented young Goans seeking professional careers outside the state,” said GIDC chairman Aleixo Reginaldo Lourenco.Godinho also said that GIDC has handed over Rs 8.4 crore to govt as statutory payment towards the house-tax liability payable under Section 37A of the Goa Industrial Development Act, 1965.
