Goa to overtake Karnataka, Tamil Nadu in IT sector in 5-6 years: Laxmikant Parsekar

Goa is slated to overtake states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu in Information Technology (IT) sector in the coming years on account of the state's talented youths, Goa Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar said on Monday.

"Goa is a blessed state. If the state government is serious and sincere, it can find solutions to the problems. On the IT industry front, we are sincere," Parsekar told PTI, after inaugurating the building that would house Information Technology Corporation and other related bodies here.

"Goa is the upcoming competitor to Karnataka and Tamil Nadu and in 5-6 years, we would be the leader. We have the required talent," he said.

Asserting that Goan youths who have migrated to other states in search of IT jobs would return, Parsekar said that they have gained enough experience and would contribute to the industries coming up in the state.

He apprised that Goa has received approval for centrally- funded Electronic Design Systems Manufacturing (EDSM) in the electronic city at Tuem village in North Goa district.

"We have got in-principle approval (for EDSM project). We have to submit the entire project by July 20, 2016. We would have an interactive session with the stakeholders and industry before finalising the draft," the Chief Minister said.

He said the Union government would fund Rs 50 crore towards the project and its approval for the same would be given by August end.

He said it is wrongly perceived that Goa has missed the IT bus.

"We have planned Information Technology Park at Chimbel (North Goa), which will be spread over 100 acres of land," he added.