West Bengal Cabinet Unveils Key Initiatives and Expands Administration

The West Bengal Cabinet announced initiatives: land transfer for BSF border fencing, expanding the subsidised food programme, increased sewer worker compensation, and state-wide celebrations for Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee's 125th birth anniversary. The administration expanded with 35 new ministers, reflecting a shuffle in governance.

At its inaugural meeting, the West Bengal Cabinet on Wednesday approved critical measures, notably the land transfer to the Border Security Force (BSF) for border fencing operations. These decisions accompany plans to broaden the state's subsidised food programme and improve compensation for sewer workers, according to Minister Agnimitra Paul.

The Cabinet sanctioned a name change for the government's 'Maa Canteen' initiative, now 'Maa Ahar', offering meals priced at Rs 5 with nutritional enhancements like eggs and fish served twice a week. The programme, currently running at 390 centres, is set to expand further with 110 additional centres planned after new budget allocations.

Additional actions include enhancing compensation for sewer-related fatalities and injuries, and naming Surojit Nath Mitra as the new Advocate General. June 20 will be celebrated as West Bengal Day, while a year-long celebration will commemorate Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee's 125th birth anniversary, featuring a dedication ceremony for a 125-foot statue in his honour.

Meanwhile, Monday saw a major political development as 35 new ministers were sworn in at Kolkata's Lok Bhawan, raising the Council of Ministers' count to 41 under Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. This reshuffle aligns with efforts to bolster governance across sectors.