9600 Cr for housing, 4% hike in DA, no increase in Lakhi Bhandar - Read Budget Highlights

The West Bengal Budget for the financial year 2025-26 was tabled in the state assembly by Finance Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya, bringing several key announcements across multiple sectors. The budget focuses on social welfare, infrastructure development, and economic growth, with notable allocations to various schemes and initiatives.

Dearness Allowance to Increase by 4%

In a significant relief for state government employees, the budget has announced a 4% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) before the 2026 elections. This move is expected to benefit employees and pensioners, providing them with financial support amid rising inflation.

Pathashree Project Gets Rs 1,500 Crore

The government has earmarked Rs 1,500 crore for the Pathashree project, aimed at improving rural and urban roads across the state. This allocation is expected to accelerate infrastructure development and enhance connectivity in remote areas.

Rs 500 Crore Allocated for Ghatal Master Plan

The long-pending Ghatal Master Plan, aimed at flood control and drainage improvement in the Ghatal region, has received a crucial boost with an allocation of Rs 500 crore. The project is expected to mitigate flood risks and provide relief to thousands of residents in the affected areas.

Rs 9,600 Crore for Bangla Bari

The state government has significantly increased funding for the Bangla Bari scheme, allocating an additional Rs 9,600 crore. This initiative focuses on providing housing to economically weaker sections, ensuring affordable and sustainable living conditions for the underprivileged.

Rs 500 Crore for Gangasagar Bridge

A major infrastructure project, the Gangasagar Bridge, has received Rs 500 crore in funding. This bridge will enhance connectivity to the pilgrimage site, benefiting thousands of devotees and boosting tourism in the region.

350 New Sufal Bangla Stalls to Open

In a move to promote agricultural produce and ensure fair prices for farmers, the government will set up 350 new Sufal Bangla stalls across the state. These stalls will help in providing fresh farm produce directly to consumers at reasonable rates.

4.24 Lakh MSMEs Registered on Udyam Portal

The state has seen remarkable growth in micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), with 4.24 lakh businesses registered on the Udyam portal. This surge indicates a robust entrepreneurial environment and strong support for small businesses in West Bengal.

Smartphones for 70,000 ASHA Workers

Recognizing the crucial role played by Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) in healthcare delivery, the government has announced the distribution of smartphones to 70,000 ASHA workers. This initiative aims to improve healthcare outreach and digital connectivity in rural areas.

The budget for 2025-26 reflects the West Bengal government's focus on social welfare, infrastructure, and economic development. With substantial allocations across key sectors, these measures are expected to drive progress and benefit citizens across the state.