GPS-based study to assess challenges, potential, contribution to state economy
Shoma Patnaik
Panaji : The state government for the first time has proposed to map the traditional and heritage occupations of Goa, through a focused study.
The GPS-enabled study will assess the challenges facing the locals engaged in traditional occupations, and their potential as well as contribution to the local economy.
It will be based on primary data collection through the survey to be undertaken by an agency to be appointed by the directorate of planning, statistics & evaluation.
From the survey the government aims to gain insights on the ownership of units engaged in traditional occupations, the employment generated by them, the likelihood of their future continuity, etc.
The survey has a timeline of 60 days with the agency coming out with a report on the findings.
An estimated 1.5 lakh Goans are engaged in traditional occupations, as per the directorate. However, many among them are outside the formal system with limited access to finance, social security, market linkages and institutional support.
The occupations face challenges such as declining viability, generational shifts and increasing competition from organised sectors. In addition, there is limited data on the structure of the traditional sector, the constraints and potential which hinders policy making. Through the fact-based survey the government expects to gather policy-ready information that will help in decision making, implementing livelihood interventions and carrying out regulatory reforms.
The information will also assist in bringing those involved in traditional occupations into the formal economy, improve the earning livelihood prospects and enhance economic opportunities.
The government has proposed to appoint an agency which will identify the traditional and heritage occupations across the state, reveal their geographic distribution and sector presence, viz. in arts, crafts, food, etc.
The agency will collect ground-level data and analyse the livelihood characteristics such as income, seasonality, among others. The collection of data must be GPS-enabled and digital with real time monitoring dashboard. The methodology of the survey needs to be a combination of social science research and field-level planning with the findings resulting in actionable recommendations.
