Overview
West Bengal's new BJP government presents a Rs4.38 lakh crore budget focused on jobs and growth. The budget announces one lakh government jobs, a new airport near Kolkata, a deep-sea port, and various welfare schemes. Major investments in infrastructure, education, and women's welfare aim to boost the state's development.
Employment Generation and Reservations
One Lakh Government Jobs
The budget announces the filling of one lakh government vacancies. This is a major step to address unemployment in the state. Young people will get opportunities to work in various government departments.
33% Reservation for Women
The government has introduced 33% reservation for women in state government recruitment. This measure will empower women and increase their participation in the workforce. It represents a significant step towards gender equality.
Employment Opportunities Across Sectors
The budget also aims to strengthen employment in different sectors. Private sector growth will be encouraged alongside government jobs. This comprehensive approach will create more opportunities for all.
Dearness Allowance Hike for Employees
DA Increase Announcement
Government employees will receive a significant Dearness Allowance increase. The government announced an additional 20% DA over the existing 18%. This brings the total DA to 38% for state government employees.
Benefits for Pensioners
Pensioners will also benefit from this announcement. They will receive an additional 20% Dearness Relief. This will help retired employees cope with rising living costs.
Effective Date
The new DA rates will be effective from October 1, 2026. Employees and pensioners will receive the enhanced benefits from this date. This provides financial relief to thousands of state government workers.
Major Infrastructure Projects
New Airport Near Kolkata
The budget's flagship announcement is a new airport near Kolkata. The government plans to develop a greenfield airport near Kalyani. It will require 1,000 to 1,500 acres of land.
Benefits of the New Airport:
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Reduces congestion at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport
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Improves regional connectivity across the region
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Supports economic growth in surrounding areas
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Attracts investment and tourism to the state
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Creates an important aviation hub for eastern India
Deep-Sea Port in Purba Medinipur
The budget announces plans for a deep-sea port at Dadanpatrabar. This project will be located in Purba Medinipur district. It represents a significant investment in maritime infrastructure.
Expected Benefits:
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Strengthens maritime infrastructure
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Boosts trade and logistics capabilities
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Generates employment opportunities
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Supports industrial development in coastal regions
Regional Airport Expansion
The government has allocated ?10 crore for expanding Cooch Behar Airport. This will improve air connectivity to northern parts of the state.
Additionally, land has been provided for expansion of air force stations:
These initiatives will improve both civilian and strategic aviation infrastructure.
Urban Transport Development
Metro rail services have been proposed for three major cities. These include Durgapur, Asansol, and Siliguri. Improved urban transport will ease travel and boost economic activity.
Higher Education and Skill Development
IIT in North Bengal
The government has announced plans to establish an IIT in North Bengal. This premier institute will provide advanced education in technology and engineering. It will also promote research and innovation in the region.
IIM in North Bengal
An IIM will also be established in North Bengal. This management institute will create opportunities for higher education in business and management. It will contribute to regional development and skill enhancement.
Sports Infrastructure
Mini indoor stadiums will be established in all Assembly constituencies. This will promote sports at the grassroots level. Young athletes will get better facilities to train and compete.
Welfare Schemes and Social Security
Annapurna Yojana
The government has allocated Rs36,000 crore for the Annapurna Yojana. This scheme replaces the previous Lakshmir Bhandar scheme. Beneficiaries will receive enhanced financial assistance under this program.
Women's Welfare Initiatives
Free Bus Services:
Rs550 crore has been allocated for free bus services for women. This will make public transport more accessible and safe for women.
Student Assistance:
Unmarried girl students in government and government-aided colleges will receive Rs50,000 one-time assistance. This will help them continue their education without financial stress.
Student Financial Support
Students enrolled in government colleges will receive Rs30,000 financial assistance. This aims to reduce dropout rates and encourage higher education. Many students will benefit from this support.
Housing and Employment Guarantee
PM Awas Benefits:
Around 25 lakh additional beneficiaries will receive PM Awas benefits. This will help many families get access to proper housing.
MGNREGA Enhancement:
MGNREGA employment has increased from 100 days to 125 days annually. Rural workers will get more days of guaranteed employment.
Support for Gig Workers and Migrants
Gig Workers Welfare Board:
The budget proposes a Welfare Board for gig workers. This will provide social security to workers in the gig economy.
Health Cards for Migrants:
Ayushman Bharat health cards will be provided to migrant labourers. This will ensure they have access to quality healthcare.
Benefits for Frontline Workers
Civic Volunteers and Security Personnel
Monthly remuneration has increased by Rs2,000 for:
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Civic Volunteers
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Green Police
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Home Guards
ASHA Workers
ASHA workers will receive a remuneration increase of Rs5,000. These frontline health workers play a vital role in community health.
Para Teachers
Para teachers will also receive a Rs5,000 increase in remuneration. This will motivate them and improve education quality.
Cultural and Heritage Initiatives
Tagore Cultural Centre
The government will establish a dedicated Tagore Cultural Centre. This centre will preserve and promote the legacy of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. It will celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Bengal.
Regional Development Measures
Anti-Erosion Project:
Rs50 crore allocated for anti-erosion work in Jangipur, Murshidabad. This will protect land and property from river erosion.
MLA Development Fund:
MLA fund increased from ?70 lakh to ?1 crore per MLA every year. MLAs will have more resources for local development projects.
Top Department Allocations
| Department |
Allocation |
| Women & Child Development and Social Welfare |
Rs52,308.50 crore |
| Panchayats & Rural Development |
Rs51,836.55 crore |
| School Education |
Rs44,948.21 crore |
These departments receive the highest funding, showing the government's priorities in welfare and education.
Fiscal Priorities and Economic Outlook
Revenue Enhancement Strategy
The