from daijiworld's special correspondent
 
Panaji, Aug 13: With necessary boost and governmental support, Goa can emerge as a prime destination for information technology sector, feels an expert.

"Lot depends upon encouragement given by local population and authorities for any IT firm to set up its shop here," stated Sreekumar B., senior manager (HR), Yahoo India.

IT experts like Sreekumar feel that the western state does not face dearth of location. "Comforts should be given by people in power," he said.

While the alumni of prestigious Goa Institute of management (GIM), tucked at Panaji's outskirt gathered today for their annual gathering, IT and managerial opportunities was something, they can't stop discussing about besides their old nostalgic days in GIM.

"Basically, Goa's emphasis was on tourism. But with special economic zones being planned, IT is being looked at very highly," Sreekumar said in an informal chat with the media.

What makes Goa so much IT-favourite? Pat came the reply: hospitality and English-educated people.

Sreekumar said that there is severe shortage of talents all across. "Right now 120 thousand people are in IT and IT-enabled services sector. The demand will be 500 thousands by 2008," he predicted.

Ketan Hajarnavis, chief operating officer, Pune-based Calibre software technologies, another GIM alumni, says,"it's not just iT but other sectors also needs more professionals. For instance, you are going to require many more managers."

Jery Mathew, another GIM alumni, who runs Hello Information services, an unique venture of his own in Goa, felt that Goa has lot of manpower for IT sector. "There is no dearth of manpower. Governmental efforts would work in a big way to push IT industry here," he added.