As primary settlers of Goa, the tribals in this state have maintained their ancient traditions and rituals, and are proud of their roots. With their rich heritage the tribals have enormously contributed to the growth and development of Goa.
Yet, the tribals continue to remain backward and are vulnerable to economic and social injustice.
The tribals have a feeling of alienation due to economic and technological backwardness and it is in the fitness of things the government feels it has an obligation to make a difference in their lives.
The Government of Goa is sincerely making all efforts to promote and fortify the well-being of people in subsidized loans for backward areas so that they are at par with other citizens in this state.
To stimulate the welfare of tribals, the state government has initiated Goa Tribal Employment Generation Programme ( GTEGP) scheme. This scheme is sponsored by the Government of Goa and promoted by EDC Limited, a premier financial institution in Goa.
EDC Limited was incorporated in March 1975. In its last 45 years of existence, this institution has been a catalyst for the industrial and economic development of Goa.
Some of the salient features of the GTEGP scheme are as follows.
To provide personal loan for unemployed persons 18 to 45 years of age
The persons must be of Goan domicile with permanent residency of at least 15 years.
Persons availing loan must be members of tribal community notified by the Government of Goa.
They must not be defaulters to any bank / financial institutions.
Loans are provided for activities covering micro, small and medium enterprises ( MSME), enterprises, trade enterprises including farming and tobacco products.
Interest rate on loans is very attractive at 2 percent.
Loan amount is repayable in 60 to 120 EMIs
The loan recipients must undergo compulsory entrepreneurship training of up to 7 days within 6 months of the sanction of the personal loan in goa.
The core objective of the scheme is upliftment of the tribals so that they get equal opportunities as rest of the citizens of Goa.
By providing subsidized loans for backward areas the tribals will get a sense of confidence that the government is serious in its welfare.
We must keep in mind that Goan tribals are skilled craftsmen and can create good articles for tourism consumers. The state’s tribal population is notified under the communities of Gauda, Kunbi and Velip living in small talukas. They also live in the foothill areas of Western Ghats, rural and semi-urban and urban areas.
Other key features of the loan scheme are
The borrower is entitled for a subsidy equal to 38 % of the project cost.
The borrower doesn’t have to pay back the subsidy. However, in case of default the subsidy is repayable proportionately.
Tribals can play an important role in the development of the agricultural sector to support tourism and the local population.
Goa has a vision to become a model state in the near future. There is a good possibility that this vision will fructify with initiatives taken by the Government of Goa.
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