Goa has been recognized as an 'Emerging State' for startups by the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion at the 'Startup Ranking 2018'.  IT Minister Rohan Khaunte has stated that the hard-work and personal time put in by CM Manohar Parrikar, IT Department Team and Industry Professionals has borne fruit. Rohan has claimed that this is only the first step in IT department's journey to be the best performing state for startups. The awards were given in 6 different categories such as Best Performer, Top Performers, Leaders, Aspiring Leaders, Emerging States, and Beginners. Goa has been included in 5th category while Gujrat has been awarded as Best Performer.