Bengal Budget 2026: 1 lakh jobs, new airport and 20% DA, Shubhendu government gave a big gift in the first budget

Kolkata: By presenting its first budget in the West Bengal Assembly, the state government has made many big announcements regarding development, employment and technological progress. Almost every section has been kept in mind in the budget, from government employees to youth, farmers, security system and infrastructure. The government has made it clear that along with giving a new direction of development to the state, the already running public welfare schemes will also be continued without any change.

While presenting the budget in the Assembly, Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta said that the government’s aim is to take forward the vision of ‘Developed India and Developed Bengal’. He assured that all the social schemes already running in the state will continue as before and the beneficiaries will not face any kind of problem. To further strengthen law and order in the state, it has also been announced to start emergency service ‘Dial 112’, which will enable people to get immediate help in times of crisis.

Big benefits to employees and youth

Taking a big decision for government employees in the budget, a 20 percent increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) has been announced. This increased DA will be applicable from October 2026. Apart from this, the state government has announced to provide one lakh new jobs for the youth. The special thing is that 33 percent posts in these recruitments will be earmarked for women. The government believes that this will increase employment opportunities and women’s participation will also be strengthened.

Emphasis on administrative and infrastructure development

Many new schemes have been announced to improve the administrative system in the state. Kanthi area will be made a new police district. Also, new municipalities and fire stations will be established in different areas so that people can get better facilities. The government says that these steps will improve both the reach and effectiveness of administrative services.

Focus on AI and digital system

To move ahead in the technical field, West Bengal will now pay special attention to Artificial Intelligence (AI). Digital India Land Records will be prepared in the state, so that land related information can be made more organized and transparent. Apart from this, to make the examination system more fair and modern, a strong infrastructure related to online examination and digital records will be developed. The government aims to bring improvements in both administration and education sectors through technology.

MLA fund increased

A new cultural school will be established in Kolkata to promote the cultural heritage of the state. At the same time, to speed up local development works, the MLA fund given to MLAs has been increased from Rs 70 lakh to Rs 1 crore. The government believes that this will strengthen regional development projects.

Special provisions for Jangipur and security forces

‘Phalta Model’ will be implemented in Phalta area of ​​South 24 Parganas. A special budget of Rs 50 crore has been kept to deal with the flood problem in Jangipur area. Besides, it has also been announced to increase the honorarium of Civic Police and Green Police by Rs 2,000, which will provide financial relief to these employees.

Announcement of compensation in political matters

The government has also announced that those who were allegedly accused in false political cases will be given appropriate compensation. There is a lot of discussion in political circles regarding this decision.

Airport and defense infrastructure will get a boost

Many important announcements have also been made in the budget for defense and transport sectors. 25 acres of additional land will be provided to Hasimara Air Force Station and 37 acres to Kalaikunda Air Force Station. Apart from this, 1000 to 1500 acres of land will be identified for the new greenfield airport near Kalyani. There are plans to construct new airports in Purulia, Balurghat and Malda, while Cooch Behar airport will be strengthened with modern facilities. To increase power generation in the state, work will also be done towards setting up new thermal power stations under the PPT model.

Before presenting the budget, the Chief Minister and the Finance Minister offered prayers in the temple. This time the budget documents were specially prepared keeping in mind the traditional culture of Bengal. The files are made from jute and traditional mat material, which is eco-friendly as well as promotes local handicrafts.