West Bengal State Budget welcomed by Industry & Common people

Smt. Chandrima Bhattacharya , West Bengal Minister of State for Finance (Independent Charge) presented West Bengal State Budget for 2025-26 period in West Bengal State Assembly on 12th February 2025. Industry Chambers and common people reacted favourably to budget proposals.
Budget focussed on key areas like Infrastructure creation, Climate mitigation and adaptation, social empowerment, rejuvenation of Tea industry and enhancing the purchasing power of the salaried class.
A 4 percent DA hike announced for the State Govt. employees. This will augment consumer demand for the State economy.
Several much needed infrastructure development proposal in budget will boost local area economy in several areas in the State .
Rs 500 crore budgetary allocation for the Gangasagar setu will help to develop Gangasagar as a major national and international tourism hub.
Rs 200 crore allocated for the Nodi Bandhan scheme and Rs 500 crore for the Ghatal Master scheme will facilitate climate mitigation and adaptation needs of the State.
To promote the GI tagged Darjeeling Tea industry, the Government has extended the waiver on any State Tax on income from Tea Production for one more year.
Rs 1500 crore has been allocated for the Pathasree scheme. Rs 9600 crore has been allocated for the Banglar Bari scheme which will lead to asset creation for the marginalised population.
Health and Education departments allocation enhanced.
“ICC welcomes this Budget as it emphasizes progressive and inclusive economic growth by increasing disposable income, creating social and physical infrastructure and also looking at the flood mitigation needs of the State. It is a capacity building and progressive budget.” said Dr Rajeev Singh, Director General, Indian Chamber of Commerce.

Dr. N. G. Khaitan, President, Bharat Chamber of Commerce, Kolkata giving his immediate reactions said ” “The Budget exemplifies a pro-people, forward-looking, and pragmatic approach, addressing both immediate socio-economic concerns and long-term development goals. By prioritising inclusive growth, the Government under the dynamic leadership of the Chief Minister, Ms. Mamata Banerjee focuses on rural development, social welfare, education and healthcare, ensuring that the most vulnerable sections of society receive the support they need. Significant allocations for skill development, employment generation, and MSME support reflect a commitment to empowering youth and entrepreneurs, fostering self-reliance and economic resilience. The Government’s focus on infrastructure expansion and digital transformation demonstrates a clear vision for socio-economic progress.The Budget demonstrated pragmatism in policy-making focused on people-centric development and, at the same time, ensuring that the State not only meets current challenges but also lays the foundation for a more prosperous and equitable future.”
“The emphasis laid on reforms and simplification of the clearance process for investments and projects through a State Level Invest Synergy Committee are expected to encourage the industry to consider West Bengal as their destination, in particular. In this regard, hassle-free land allocation for proposed industrial and 6 economic corridors by the State Government is the much needed boost, Dr. Khaitan emphasised.
Procurement of products made by MSMEs & others in West Bengal by various Departments of West Bengal Government is a real encouragement for the indigenous manufacturers, MSMEs in particular.

(This story has not been edited by News Mania staff and is published from a Media Release)