Mamata Banerjee Returns to Kolkata, Plans Key Meeting on World Bengal Trade Conference and Infrastructure Development

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, January 8, 2025 : Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee returned to Kolkata today after her visit to the Gangasagar Fair, where she took stock of the arrangements for the annual event. Upon her return, the Chief Minister has called for an emergency meeting at Nabanna, scheduled for tomorrow, January 9, to discuss important matters, including the upcoming World Bengal Trade Conference, slated for February 5-6. The conference is expected to be a major platform for showcasing Bengal’s industrial potential ahead of the 2026 assembly elections.

Sources within the administration revealed that the meeting will involve detailed discussions with administrative officials on the planning and execution of the trade conference. Chief Minister Banerjee has been proactive in organizing the event, holding multiple meetings with administrative officials to ensure its success. The World Bengal Trade Conference is seen as a significant initiative to attract global attention to the state’s industrial capabilities, especially as the Chief Minister aims to present Bengal as a key investment hub.

In this crucial meeting, the Chief Minister is expected to receive a comprehensive report from state officials, including Chief Secretary Manoj Pant, on the progress made so far. Last week, a high-level meeting was held under the Chief Secretary's leadership, and this upcoming session will provide an opportunity for further review and fine-tuning of the plans. Once the Chief Minister gives her approval, the work on the conference will begin in earnest.

Banerjee has placed a strong emphasis on industrial development and attracting investment to West Bengal. She has previously undertaken foreign tours to bring in investments and now intends to leverage this trade conference as a platform to bring the state's potential to the people. Her vision is to generate employment for Bengal’s educated youth by showcasing the state as an ideal destination for industries. Representatives from the West Bengal Industrial Development Corporation (WBIDC) will also be present to update the Chief Minister on the progress of various industrial and infrastructure development initiatives.

Earlier today, in a separate event, the Chief Minister inaugurated 30 projects and laid the foundation stones for 19 more in South 24 Parganas district, with an estimated financial value of ₹153 crore for completed projects and ₹61 crore for ongoing ones. Notable initiatives include the construction of 17 Anganwadi centers in Sagar block, 12 jetties across Patharpratima, Gosaba, and Namkhana blocks, and the upgrading of the Canning bus terminus. Three bridges over the Moni, Sundarika-Dwarika, and Piyali rivers were also inaugurated. These projects, aimed at improving the quality of life for approximately 19 lakh residents, are seen as vital to the region’s infrastructure and economic development.

In her address, the Chief Minister also emphasized her deep emotional connection with Sagar Island and the Gangasagar Mela, stating that the fair had created a special bond of love between her and the people of the region. To ensure the convenience of pilgrims attending the fair, the government has put in place a range of services, including a stretched power line over the Muriganga river, three permanent helipads, 2,250 government buses, and 250 private buses. Additionally, 100 launches, 21 jetties, and over 12,000 toilets will be made available for the smooth conduct of the fair. A new initiative this year includes providing biodegradable carry bags for devotees to promote an eco-friendly and sustainable fair.

Banerjee also assured that government officials, along with many volunteers, will be working tirelessly around the clock to ensure the welfare of all those attending the fair. She expressed her heartfelt wishes for the well-being of the pilgrims, saying, “With a pious heart, bid farewell to all the unhappy and become a part of this pious bath – this is my prayer to the Almighty.” She urged everyone to participate in the religious event with devotion and unity.

The Chief Minister’s initiatives reflect her ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure, attract investment, and ensure the welfare of the people in both urban and rural areas across the state.