Kolkata, March 3, 2025 – West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has made it clear that her government will not tolerate delays or inefficiencies in the implementation of industrial projects across the state. Her remarks came after a meeting with industrialists, following the Bengal Global Business Summit held in February.
Addressing the concerns of industrialists, Banerjee emphasized the state’s competitive edge in terms of its highly skilled workforce and abundant talent pool. "Bengal is No. 1 in terms of skill availability and talent. We will not tolerate any laxity and delay in project execution, especially in sectors such as IT, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and other industries," she stated.
Banerjee pointed out the significant potential of the SME sector in generating employment and urged government officials to take a more proactive approach in reviewing project files. "Many government departments sit on project files. Senior officers should personally oversee projects, rather than leaving them to lower-level staff," she added.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the need to address systemic issues such as bureaucratic red tape. "Time has changed, and so must our approach. The focus should now be on creating employment opportunities, not on unnecessary delays," she remarked.
Need for Speedy Clearances and Coordinated Efforts
In her speech, Banerjee underlined the importance of time-bound solutions, stressing that departmental coordination was crucial for expediting project approvals. "Red tape bureaucracy needs to change. We need speedy solutions, and that requires departments to work together efficiently. All clearances, especially environmental, should be granted within a month," she said.
Banerjee further stressed that it was essential for the progress of projects to be continuously monitored to identify and resolve any roadblocks. "This has to be closely observed by everyone involved, and urgent action should be taken to ensure speedy execution," she added.
To improve transparency and efficiency, Banerjee proposed the introduction of a real-time tracking system for project applications, urging the Chief Secretary to oversee its implementation. "I urge the Chief Secretary to introduce real-time tracking of applications. This should be monitored every fortnight, with industry leaders also invited to participate," she said.
Resolving Local Issues and Supporting Industrial Growth
Addressing concerns raised by industrialists about local challenges, Banerjee assured that any problems created by local leaders could be addressed through official complaints to the government. She also stated that retrenchment by industrial units would be dealt with in coordination with the state’s labor department.
"No personal interests should influence decisions. We will ensure fair negotiations and support both industries and workers in the state," she noted.
Development of Economic Corridors and New Investments
Banerjee also revealed plans for the establishment of six economic corridors that would span all districts in the state, with 3,000 acres of land already identified for development. She stressed the importance of not allowing land to remain idle or be taken forcibly for industrial use. "Government secretaries must ensure that land is used efficiently and in a manner that benefits the state," she said.
On industrial expansion, Banerjee acknowledged proposals for significant investments, including plans for five steel plants, which would require Rs 35,000 crore in investment and create jobs for 50,000 people. Other major projects, such as expansions from Ambuja Cement, Ultratech Cement, Essar Oil and Gas, and Godrej Properties, were also mentioned.
Additionally, Captain Steel has proposed an investment of Rs 170 crore, which will contribute to further industrial growth in the region.
Focus on Inclusive Housing in Real Estate
In response to concerns from the real estate sector, Banerjee made a strong statement about housing policies. "No building plans should be approved if they result in the eviction of the poor from their homes. Both the poor and the rich have the right to shelter," she said, reinforcing her commitment to equitable development across all sectors.
The Chief Minister’s remarks underline her determination to accelerate industrial growth while maintaining a balanced approach that ensures both economic progress and social welfare in West Bengal.
