Govt seeks industry feedback at Durgapur pre-budget consultation, promises business relief

A pre-budget consultation meeting was held in Durgapur on Sunday evening as the state government engaged with industrialists and entrepreneurs to gather suggestions ahead of the upcoming budget. The meeting, held at a private hotel in City Centre, brought together representatives from seven districts, including Asansol, Durgapur, Bankura, Purulia and Birbhum, to discuss industrial challenges, investment concerns and policy requirements.

The meeting was attended by Urban Development Minister Agnimitra Paul, Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta and Additional Chief Secretary (Finance) Prabhakar Kumar Mishra. Representatives of industry associations, chambers of commerce and business organisations participated in detailed discussions on issues affecting industrial growth and the ease of establishing new enterprises in the state.

During the consultation, entrepreneurs highlighted investment-related challenges and sought measures to simplify administrative procedures. The government assured participants that efforts were being made to create a more transparent and efficient system for industries. Officials stated that industrial approval processes would be streamlined and that faster services would be provided through a single-window clearance mechanism.

Agnimitra Paul said the government was committed to improving the industrial environment and ensuring quicker resolution of business-related issues. She stated that the administration was focused on providing transparent services and reducing procedural hurdles faced by investors and entrepreneurs seeking to establish or expand industrial units.

Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta said the government was prioritising industrial growth, infrastructure development and employment generation. He stated that efforts were underway to resolve land-related issues, attract fresh investments and revive closed factories in the Asansol-Durgapur industrial belt. Officials also informed participants that a proposal for an alternative barrage to support future industrial and infrastructure requirements in the region was under consideration.