Panaji: Goa Institution for Future Transformation (GIFT), set up as the state’s policy think tank on the lines of NITI Aayog, has shown limited activity and a narrow spending pattern compared with several other states, according to the latest compiled central government data.
The data shows that the state recorded no expenditure or activity in multiple categories, with a total allocation of Rs 2.08 crore appearing only under a single component and zero utilisation in several others.
In contrast, states such as Meghalaya (Rs 3.78 crore), Mizoram (Rs 4.15 crore) and Tripura (Rs 3.59 crore) recorded higher and more distributed spending patterns. Meghalaya, in particular, showed balanced utilisation across categories.
Similarly, Gujarat’s Gujarat Rajya Institution for Transformation (GRIT) and Maharashtra’s Maharashtra Institution for Transformation (MITRA) showed consistent multi-sectoral engagement, with total allocations exceeding Rs 3 crore and Rs 2.8 crore, respectively. Even smaller regions such as Lakshadweep and Puducherry recorded wider utilisation across multiple heads, suggesting more comprehensive implementation frameworks.
Experts said that institutions such as GIFT are meant to function as state-level think tanks, akin to NITI Aayog, driving innovation, policy planning and monitoring development outcomes.
However, the state’s limited spread of expenditure raises questions over institutional capacity, execution and strategic prioritisation.
The data suggests that while Goa has established the institutional framework, its full potential remains underutilised, especially when compared with more proactive states using such bodies for governance transformation.
Institutions such as MITRA and the Telangana State Innovation Cell have also taken a more proactive approach by engaging stakeholders, publishing reports and leading development initiatives.
