The first budget session of West Bengal’s newly elected BJP government commenced on Thursday, with Governor R.N. Ravi delivering the inaugural address in accordance with legislative conventions. The session is scheduled to continue until June 25, with Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta set to present the government’s first full budget on June 22.
In his address, the Governor laid out the new administration’s priorities, focusing on issues such as women’s safety, border security, industrial development, agriculture, and employment. He also made pointed remarks that were seen as indirect criticism of the previous Trinamool Congress (TMC) government.
Emphasising governance reforms, the Governor stated that the government’s foremost objective is to eliminate institutional corruption and extortion, and to restore the rule of law in the state. He asserted that putting an end to alleged “syndicate raj” practices would be central to the administration’s agenda.
On internal security, the Governor highlighted the government’s commitment to strengthening border management and halting illegal infiltration. He also announced a ‘zero tolerance’ policy towards crimes against women and pledged stringent action against human trafficking.
Addressing concerns related to natural resources, he noted that the government would act firmly against illegal encroachment of public land, sand smuggling, and the exploitation of mineral resources.
The Governor further stated that the new administration aims to ensure that central welfare schemes, including Ayushman Bharat and PM Awas Yojana, reach all eligible beneficiaries in the state. He alleged that political differences in the past had hindered the implementation of such schemes.
On the economic front, the Governor outlined a roadmap to revive industrial growth and infrastructure development in West Bengal. He announced plans to reclaim unused land acquired during the previous regime and utilise it for new industrial projects. The government will also prioritise the development of coastal transport, inland waterways, and the fisheries sector.
Referring to past recruitment controversies, the Governor assured a comprehensive overhaul of the employment and education systems. He stated that the National Education Policy (NEP) would be fully implemented in the state, alongside measures to ensure transparency in recruitment processes. A complete and error-free list of vacancies will be prepared, and recruitment will be expedited.
He also announced that the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) for primary and upper-primary levels will be conducted annually, while efforts will be made to maintain an optimal student-teacher ratio. School libraries are set to be modernised with improved infrastructure.
In a major announcement, the Governor revealed plans to establish a new Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in North Bengal to promote educational and technological advancement in the region.
Focusing on employment generation, he said the government will develop a large-scale ‘Startup Hub’ to support young entrepreneurs and reduce migration for jobs. The administration also pledged to reopen closed tea gardens in North Bengal, aiming to revive the local economy.
Concluding his address, the Governor conveyed a message of change, asserting that the new government seeks to create an environment of stability, development, and public confidence under a ‘double-engine’ governance model.
The session is expected to witness detailed discussions on the government’s policy direction in the coming days.
Follow us
