Old Age Pension Scheme (APB&OCWWB) 2026

Launched in 2018 by the Goa Government's Department of Information Technology, this scheme provides eligible IT units Read More... with a 25% subsidy on high-speed internet bandwidth, capped at ₹5,00,000 annually. Read less

Details

In a bid to boost the IT sector, the Goa government rolled out the Internet Subsidy Scheme in 2018. This initiative, part of the state's broader Information Technology Policy, aims to make Goa a hub for IT businesses by supporting their infrastructure needs.

What Is This Scheme?

The Internet Subsidy Scheme, introduced by the Department of Information Technology, Government of Goa, offers financial assistance to IT companies operating in the state. It specifically helps cover the costs associated with high-speed internet connectivity, a crucial element for modern IT operations.

Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?

This scheme is designed for both new and existing Information Technology (IT) units that have their business operations based in Goa. Various types of business structures, including proprietorships, private and public limited companies, partnership firms, and LLPs, are eligible to apply.

Why This Scheme Is Important

The scheme is a key part of Goa's IT Policy, which seeks to establish the state as a prime location for IT investments and expansion. By subsidizing internet costs, the government aims to reduce operational expenses for IT units, encouraging them to set up or expand their presence in Goa, thereby creating jobs and fostering economic growth.

Objective

Launched in 2018 by the Goa Government's Department of Information Technology, this scheme provides eligible IT units with a 25% subsidy on high-speed internet bandwidth, capped at ₹5,00,000 annually.

Benefits

1. Cash assistance of ₹500/- per month, to the old age beneficiaries with an increase in ₹10/- on completion of every 5 years.

Sources and references

Notification

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for this scheme, your IT unit must meet the following conditions:

Location: Your unit, whether new or existing, must be operating within the state of Goa.
Business Structure: The applicant must be one of the following legal entities:
- Proprietorship Firm
- Private Limited Company (registered under the Companies Act, 2013 or equivalent)
- Public Limited Company (registered under the Companies Act, 2013 or equivalent)
- Registered Partnership Firm (registered under the Indian Partnership Act, 1932 or equivalent)
- Limited Liability Partnership (registered under the Limited Liability Partnership Act, 2008 or equivalent)
Aadhaar Linking: The bank accounts of the unit and/or its partners or directors must be linked with Aadhaar.

How To Apply

To avail the Internet Subsidy Scheme, eligible IT units need to follow these steps:

Gather all the required documents as listed in the 'Documents Required' section.
Submit your application along with the necessary documents. The specific submission address or online portal details will be provided by the Department of Information Technology. (Please refer to official notifications for exact submission methods and addresses).
Your application will be reviewed by the relevant authorities.
Once approved, you will receive the subsidy as per the scheme's terms.

Official Contact/Submission Point:

Department of Information Technology, Government of Goa. (For specific submission details and addresses, please consult the official Goa IT Policy documents).

Documents Required

A copy of your business's Incorporation Certificate.
The registration document or certificate for your new unit.
Copies of your business's PAN, Aadhaar, and GST TIN.
Memorandum and Articles of Association (for companies).
A copy of the first bill generated that shows the date your operations commenced, or any other document proving the start date.
Copies of your internet bills for the period for which you are claiming the subsidy. Ensure these bills clearly state the name and address of your unit.
Proof of payment for the submitted internet bills.
Your unit's Udyog Aadhaar.

FAQ’s

When was the Internet Subsidy Scheme introduced, and who is behind it?

The Internet Subsidy Scheme was launched in 2018. It is an initiative by the Department of Information Technology, Government of Goa.

What is the maximum financial help I can get for my internet bills each year?

Under this scheme, you can get back 25% of your high-speed internet bandwidth expenses. However, the total reimbursement is capped at a maximum of ₹5,00,000 per year. You'll receive the smaller of the two amounts calculated.

How long will the scheme support my internet costs?

The subsidy for high-speed bandwidth can be claimed for up to three years. This period begins either from the date your business started operating or from when the policy was officially announced, whichever date is later.

What happens if the government runs out of budget for this scheme?

The benefits provided under this scheme are dependent on the available budget. If the allocated budget is exceeded, the government is not obligated to continue offering these benefits.

Will my IT unit be checked regularly to ensure I still qualify for the subsidy?

Yes, at the end of each financial year, your unit will be evaluated to confirm that it still meets the eligibility criteria for continuing to receive benefits from the scheme.

What exactly does Goa's IT Policy aim to achieve?

The IT Policy for Goa envisions the state as an attractive place for IT businesses, both in terms of its location and its people. It aims to make Goa a preferred destination for IT companies looking to invest and expand.

Is it a strict requirement for my business to be physically located and operating in Goa?

Yes, absolutely. For any new or existing IT unit to be eligible for this subsidy scheme, it is mandatory that its operations are based in Goa.

Is having a Udyog Aadhaar necessary to apply for this scheme?

Yes, you must provide your unit's Udyog Aadhaar. Without it, your unit will not be eligible to receive the benefits offered by this scheme.

What types of companies or firms can apply for this internet subsidy?

The scheme is open to various business structures, including Proprietorship Firms, Private Limited Companies, Public Limited Companies, Partnership Firms, and Limited Liability Partnerships, provided they are operating in Goa.

Do the bank accounts of my business or its partners need to be linked to Aadhaar?

Yes, it is a requirement that the bank accounts of the unit, and/or those of its partners or directors, must be linked with Aadhaar to meet the eligibility criteria.

What is the expected time frame for getting a decision on my application?

The timeline for the approval of applications by the Empowered Committee is generally within 60 days from when the application is received.

When can I expect to receive the subsidy or a rejection letter after applying?

After your application is processed and approved by the Empowered Committee, you can typically expect the issuance of sanction orders or regret letters, along with any disbursement, within approximately 90 days from the initial receipt of your application.