West Bengal's State Cabinet has approved the construction of an innovative township, Forum Township Project, in New Town. The sprawling 58-acre township will feature modern amenities and a special reservation for economically weaker sections. In addition, the state's standing committee on commerce and industries has given the green light for an ethanol plant in Gazole, Malda, and a tea resort in New Champta, North Bengal. The government aims to promote ethanol production and boost tea tourism in the region. Moreover, a new program, "Shilper Sandhane," will support MSME entrepreneurs and startups with hassle-free loans up to Rs 5 lakh.
In a significant development aimed at fostering sustainable urban development and bolstering the economy, the West Bengal state cabinet has granted approval for the construction of a cutting-edge township in New Town. Spanning 58 acres, the Forum Township Project will showcase innovative themes and offer a plethora of advanced amenities to its residents. Notably, the project will also feature a special reservation for economically weaker sections (EWS), demonstrating the government's commitment to inclusive growth.
The proposed township will be strategically situated in the picturesque locale of Jagadishpur mauja, Rajarhat, offering a blend of modern living and nature's serenity. This ambitious venture seeks to address the escalating housing demands in the region while ensuring that the economically disadvantaged also have access to decent housing options.
Additionally, the standing committee on commerce and industries, in a move to bolster the state's industrial landscape, has approved a 99-year lease of a 28.1-acre plot to ISR Grain Energy for the establishment of a grain-based distillery unit. State finance minister Chandrima Bhattacharya expressed enthusiasm about the committee's decision, highlighting the significance of an ethanol plant in Gazole, Malda. The government has introduced a special ethanol policy since September 2021 to promote ethanol production, offering land and incentives as part of this proactive policy.
Furthermore, in a bid to boost tourism and enhance the hospitality sector, the committee has sanctioned a 19-acre plot in New Champta, North Bengal, for the development of a tea resort by the prestigious Mayfair hotel group. By tapping into the potential of tea tourism, the state endeavors to attract niche clientele and encourage the growth of quality hotels in the region. Notably, tea gardens in North Bengal have already been granted permission to utilize part of their properties for tourism ventures.
In an effort to foster entrepreneurship and support the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) sectors, particularly startups, the state cabinet, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has announced the launch of a new program named "Shilper Sandhane." Scheduled to take place from August 1 to 18 across all blocks in the state, and in all boroughs within the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), the program aims to guide entrepreneurs and traders on availing loans up to Rs 5 lakh through the Bhabishyat Credit Card, with no need for a guarantor.
The approval of the Forum Township Project and the initiatives in the industries and MSME sectors underscore the state government's commitment to foster balanced urbanization, economic prosperity, and support for underprivileged communities. As West Bengal embarks on these ventures, it holds the promise of a brighter and more inclusive future for its residents and businesses alike.