Kolkata

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Monday described the BJP government's maiden state budget as a blueprint for both development and heritage, asserting that it addresses the needs of every section of society while laying the groundwork for long-term economic growth.

Speaking to reporters after the presentation of the 2026–27 Budget in the West Bengal Assembly, Adhikari said the budget, with a proposed outlay of over Rs 4.38 lakh crore, had been prepared despite the state's financial constraints and debt burden.

Calling it a budget of "vikas aur virasat" (development and legacy), the chief minister said it reflects the government's commitment to strengthening governance, improving infrastructure, generating employment and ensuring social welfare.

The budget was presented by Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta. Adhikari noted that the BJP government had assumed office only about six weeks ago and had limited time to prepare a full-fledged budget. He pointed out that the previous Trinamool Congress government had presented a vote-on-account for the first four months of the financial year ahead of the Assembly elections held in April.

"I welcome the budget presented by Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta. Preparing such an inclusive and comprehensive budget within a short period after assuming office is a commendable achievement," Adhikari said.

The chief minister highlighted several key measures announced in the budget, including enhanced spending on law and order. The government plans to recruit 20,000 police personnel and strengthen emergency response systems through the 112 helpline and related services.

Special emphasis has also been placed on infrastructure development, industrial expansion and agricultural growth, Adhikari said, adding that these sectors would play a crucial role in accelerating economic progress across the state.

A major announcement in the budget is the creation of one lakh new government jobs during the current financial year. The chief minister stressed that the recruitment process would be fully transparent and free from political interference.

"There will be no political representatives on recruitment committees. We will follow procedures similar to those adopted by the UPSC to ensure fairness and transparency," he said.

The assurance comes against the backdrop of allegations of irregularities in government recruitment under the previous administration, including controversies related to appointments of teachers and municipal employees.

Adhikari also reiterated his government's commitment to gradually bridging the gap in Dearness Allowance (DA) between state government employees and their counterparts in the central government.

With the latest budget announcement increasing DA for state employees by 20 per cent, the difference between state and central DA has now been reduced to 22 per cent, he said.

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The chief minister expressed confidence that the budget would help restore public trust in governance while creating new opportunities for employment, investment and overall development in West Bengal.