Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Monday expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for approving Rs 4 billion (Rs 400 crore) in special assistance for capital investment, aimed at operationalising two iron ore mining blocks in the state.

The funding was sanctioned under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) Scheme 2025–26, as part of the Mining Sector Reforms (Part-V), which includes three components — Minor Mineral Reforms (Component-I), Major Mineral Reforms (Component-II), and the State Mining Readiness Index-based Reforms (Component-III).

According to the Union Ministry of Mines, proposals were received from several states for incentive-based funding under these components. After detailed evaluation, Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, Goa, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Assam, and Tripura were declared eligible for funding under the scheme. Goa was sanctioned Rs 4 billion to accelerate the revival of its mining industry.

“I extend my gratitude to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji, Hon’ble Union Minister of Mines Shri @kishanreddybjp ji, and the Ministry of Mines for releasing Rs 4 billion under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment 2025–26, Reforms for Goa,” Sawant wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

He added, “The assistance supports the operationalisation of two mining blocks in 2025–26. The Government of Goa has ensured a transparent auction process and provided all necessary backing to revive and restart mining in the state.”

The Goa government has been taking steps to revive the iron ore sector following years of suspension due to environmental and legal concerns. The financial assistance is expected to boost employment, attract investment, and rejuvenate Goa’s economy through sustainable and responsible mining operations.

“This move will give a strong boost to Goa’s mining sector, employment generation, and the overall economy, paving the way for sustainable growth,” Sawant added.