'We Must Work Together': CM Suvendu Adhikari Unveils Bengal's New Industrial Policy
CM Suvendu Adhikari calls for unity and teamwork as West Bengal unveils a new industrial policy to attract investors and restore economic glory.
In a major move to revitalize the state's economy, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has launched the West Bengal Industrial Promotion Policy. Speaking at the Utsari Eco Park, the Chief Minister emphasized that the state's industrial growth can only be accelerated through seamless coordination between the government, industry stakeholders, and the general public.
A Call for Unity and Catching Up
Chief Minister Adhikari was candid about the state's current standing compared to other industrial hubs in India. He noted that while states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh are leading the way, West Bengal currently lags significantly behind.
Highlighting the nature of his party, Adhikari stated, "BJP is not a family party. BJP is not a regional party. BJP-NDA is functioning in 21 states." He urged a collective effort to bridge the gap, calling for the "hearty cooperation, advice, suggestions, and good teamwork" of a wide spectrum of society, including:
- Public representatives and lawmakers
- Policy makers and the cabinet
- The bureaucracy
- Industrialists and investors
- Trade union organisers
- The citizens of West Bengal
A 'Gift' for the Festive Season
The timing of the policy launch was highlighted by State Minister Tapas Roy, who described the new industrial framework as a special gift for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and industrialists in the state, arriving just ahead of the auspicious occasions of Dhanteras, Kali Puja, and Diwali.
Creating Predictability for Investors
State Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta described the policy as the "basic architecture" of the state's investment strategy. He acknowledged the historical perception of West Bengal as an unwelcoming environment for business and stated that this policy is a clear signal that investors are now welcome.
According to Dasgupta, the primary goal of the new framework is to provide a sense of predictability. By outlining the broad structures under which businesses can operate, the government aims to remove ambiguity and provide a clear roadmap for those looking to invest in the state.
Ending Red Tape and Restoring Glory
Minister Moumita Biswas Misra shed light on the systemic failures that the new policy seeks to rectify. She pointed out that previously, the lack of a defined policy and the unavailability of land had stifled growth. In the past, industrialists faced a frustrating cycle where files would circulate endlessly between desks without a clear timeline, leading many to abandon their projects.
The new policy introduces a critical change: a committed timeline. The government has now pledged to complete administrative processes within a set number of days to eliminate bureaucratic delays.
"We have a mission and a vision: to restore West Bengal to its former glory. If you look at history, you will see that industry and commerce once flourished here in West Bengal—we aim to bring back that era."
With this new policy, the state administration hopes to transform West Bengal back into a commercial powerhouse by combining clear guidelines with a commitment to efficiency.