Bengal Govt to open 23 malls in 23 districts

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee made a series of major announcements at a press conference held at Nabanna on Wednesday, outlining the Cabinet’s latest decisions aimed at transforming the state’s economic, industrial, and social landscape.

A major highlight was the launch of an ambitious International Information Technology Entertainment Cultural Park (ITECH) in New Town. Named 'Vishwangana', the 25-acre project will be built on a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model with HIDCO as the key implementing body. The CM stressed that this would attract global investment and serve as a hub for innovation and creativity.

In a significant welfare move, the Cabinet approved monthly grants for those losing jobs in Group C and D categories. Starting April 1, 2025, affected individuals will receive ₹25,000 (Group C) and ₹20,000 (Group D) per month through the Labour Department. “This is a people-first government. We will stand by those who lose jobs,” Banerjee declared.

The Cabinet also approved an allocation of 2,515 acres of land for 10 industrial plots across regions like Jungle Sundari Karmanagari, Panagarh, Durgapur, and Raghunathpur (Purulia). The proposed investments are expected to generate 70,000 jobs, with a significant focus on the steel sector.

To support grassroots entrepreneurship, 43 micro, small, and cottage industry firms were granted registration to establish units in various districts. “Many companies are showing interest in setting up industries in Bengal,” Mamata emphasized, underscoring growing investor confidence in the state.

An inclusive retail push will see 23 shopping malls open in 23 districts, with two floors in each mall reserved for self-help groups (SHGs). Land for the first 11 locations—including Purulia, Jalpaiguri, Jhargram, Murshidabad, and West Medinipur—has already been identified.

The CM also announced that land is being scouted in Digha for the construction of a major new market. In addition, convention centres will be built in Siliguri and Digha, enhancing the state’s capacity to host business and cultural events.