Panaji, Oct 17 (IANS): The closure of the mining industry in Goa has disturbed the industrial eco-system in Goa, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said on Thursday.

Panaji, Oct 17 (IANS) The closure of the mining industry in Goa has disturbed the industrial eco-system in Goa, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said on Thursday.

In his address after inaugurating investment conclave 'Vibrant Goa' near here, he said: "Goa's economic growth is driven by the strong performance of industrial sector, such as tourism, IT and pharmaceuticals. The closure of mining has however disturbed our entire eco-system of aligned industries, including logistic suppliers, truck companies and barge owners, as well as service providers."

"We are positive that the solution will be found very soon," Sawant added.

Mining has been banned in Goa since March last year by the Supreme Court on account of irregularities in the sector. The state government is currently in consultation with the Centre, to find a way to restart mining at the earliest. When the industry was at its peak in 2011, mining accounted for nearly 30 per cent of Goa's GDP.

Sawant also urged investors to invest in Goa and promised quick facilitation of permissions to set up businesses in the state.

"The Investment Promotion Board is established to facilitate approvals from the government of Goa. It ensures speedy processing of investment proposals and investors facilitation. I can assure our international delegates who seek to invest in Goa, that your proposal will be cleared within 30 days," he said.