PORVORIM: In a bid to address housing concerns, streamline urban planning, and support the real estate sector, chief minister Pramod Sawant announced a series of measures in the Goa Budget 2025-26.
The government will introduce a comprehensive housing policy through the Goa Housing Board to provide affordable housing for Goans, though specific details on eligibility and execution remain unclear.
Urban planning is set for a major overhaul, with the steering committee of the Town and Country Planning (TCP) department set to undergo a change.
Sawant said that the TCP’s steering committee will be strengthened by including multiple government stakeholders on the committee. “The approvals for mega residential/commercial projects shall be decided by this committee and the decision taken by the Steering Committee shall be binding on all departments,” Sawant said.
Additionally, Sawant said that state will conduct a carrying capacity assessment to ensure sustainable urban growth, but the budget does not provide a timeline for the study. Sawant’s announcement suggests a more centralized control over large-scale development, potentially leading to better oversight on housing and residential projects.
To support the real estate sector, the government has announced a relaxation in infrastructure tax payments, allowing builders to pay 50% at the time of applying for technical clearance and the remaining 50% upon receiving an occupancy certificate. Additionally, an amnesty scheme will be introduced, enabling citizens to transfer immovable property without incurring penalties.
A token amount of Rs 5 crore has also been allocated for slum redevelopment in the state.
