The West Bengal government on Monday announced a series of infrastructure, technology and investment-focused initiatives in its maiden budget, including a Rs 1,200 crore allocation for the Ghatal Master Plana proposed semiconductor manufacturing unit in Durgapur, an IT park in Siliguri and plans to revive the Calcutta Stock Exchange.
Presenting the budget in the state Assembly, Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta outlined the government’s strategy to strengthen flood management, attract investment and expand industrial and technology infrastructure across the state.
Rs 1,200 crore for Ghatal master plan
One of the key announcements was the allocation of Rs 1,200 crore for the Ghatal Master Plana long-pending flood management project aimed at addressing recurring flooding in the Medinipur region.
The project is expected to improve drainage infrastructure, enhance flood-control measures and provide relief to residents of flood-prone areas that face annual monsoon-related challenges.
Officials said the initiative is intended to strengthen disaster resilience and reduce economic losses caused by recurring floods.
Semiconductor unit proposed in Durgapur
The Finance Minister also announced plans to establish a semiconductor unit in Durgapursignaling the state’s intent to enter India’s growing semiconductor and electronics manufacturing sector.
The proposal comes as governments across India seek to attract investments in chip manufacturing and advanced technology industries.
While specific investment figures and implementation timelines were not announced, the project is expected to support industrial development and generate employment opportunities.
IT park planned for Siliguri
In another major technology-sector initiative, the government proposed the development of an IT park in Siliguri.
The project is aimed at expanding the state’s digital economy footprint beyond Kolkata and promoting technology-based investment in North Bengal.
Officials said the proposed IT park could help attract software, information technology and digital services companies to the region.
Calcutta stock exchange revival and investment reforms
The Finance Minister also announced that the government would pursue efforts to revive the Calcutta Stock Exchangeone of India’s oldest stock exchanges.
Additionally, Dasgupta said the Urban Land Ceiling and Regulation Act would be re-examined to unlock investment potential and facilitate economic development.
The review is expected to focus on improving land availability and creating a more investor-friendly environment.
The announcements form part of the government’s broader strategy to boost infrastructure, strengthen industrial growth and attract private investment across West Bengal.
Key Takeaways
- West Bengal allocated Rs 1,200 crore for the Ghatal Master Plan.
- The project aims to improve flood management in the Medinipur region.
- A semiconductor manufacturing unit has been proposed in Durgapur.
- An IT park is planned for Siliguri.
- The government announced plans to revive the Calcutta Stock Exchange.
- The Urban Land Ceiling and Regulation Act will be re-examined.
- The measures are aimed at attracting investment and boosting economic growth.
- The announcements were made in the state’s maiden budget under the new government.
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