The GIDC expects the two hostels to cost approximately Rs 31.7 crore. The corporation submitted a detailed project report to the Centre to set up five hostels for women at industrial estates, for which Rs 100 crore was sought. The industries department feels a strong need for a working women’s hostel at Verna, particularly for women who work night shifts in industries such as the pharmaceutical sector. At a later stage, hostels will also come up at Madkai, Tuem, and Cuncolim industrial estates. The female unemployment rate stands at a staggering 16.8% in Goa, compared to 5.6% for men, highlighting a significant gender disparity. According to the 2023-24 periodic labour force survey (PLFS), female labour force participation in Goan is just 21.2%, less than half of the 56% figure for men. The Centre has earmarked Rs 5,000 crore for assistance to states for the establishment of new working women’s hostels.