In a significant political and cultural announcement ahead of West Bengal’s most celebrated festival, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee declared a substantial hike in state grants to Durga Puja committees while simultaneously issuing a strong appeal to safeguard the dignity and livelihood of Bengali migrant workers facing “harassment and exploitation” in other Indian states.
The announcement came during an elaborate public address at Netaji Indoor Stadium in Kolkata, where Banerjee met hundreds of representatives from Durga Puja organizing committees. Reaffirming the state government’s commitment to preserving Bengal’s rich cultural heritage, she also used the platform to raise concerns over the alleged mistreatment of Bengali workers in non-Bengali speaking regions.
Grant for Durga Puja Committees Increased to ₹70,000
Mamata Banerjee declared that the financial assistance for Durga Puja committees has been increased from ₹60,000 to ₹70,000 for the year 2025. This move benefits over 43,000 registered puja committees across the state, marking a nearly 17% jump in aid.
“Durga Puja is not just a religious event; it is an emotion, an economy, and an identity for Bengal,” she said. “This festival generates thousands of jobs—from artisans and decorators to local businesses—and the state government proudly supports it.”
The West Bengal government’s support for Durga Puja has grown over the years in both scale and scope. Apart from direct cash assistance, the government also provides waivers on electricity bills, organizes awards for sustainable pandals, and coordinates with law enforcement agencies to ensure smooth and safe celebrations.
Funding Timeline of Durga Puja Committee Grants
| Year | Number of Committees Benefitted | State Grant per Committee (INR) | Total Allocation (INR Crore) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 28,000 | 25,000 | 70.00 |
| 2019 | 30,000 | 30,000 | 90.00 |
| 2021 | 37,000 | 50,000 | 185.00 |
| 2023 | 40,000 | 60,000 | 240.00 |
| 2025 | 43,000+ | 70,000 | 301.00 |
With this increase, the total government expenditure for this year’s Durga Puja grants crosses ₹300 crore, making it one of the largest festival support schemes in India.
Durga Puja: A UNESCO-Recognized Cultural Beacon
Durga Puja was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2021. Since then, the festival has gained even more global attention. The CM reminded the audience of this milestone: “We have made Durga Puja a matter of international pride. Let us now also make it a symbol of social unity and empathy.”
She emphasized that the state government is planning to collaborate with cultural ministries and international organizations to expand Bengal’s soft power diplomacy through festivals.
Political Undertones: A Call for Migrant Protection
In a departure from purely festive matters, Mamata Banerjee issued a sharp political statement, urging people to “stand by Bengali migrants” who face challenges in other states.
“Many of our brothers and sisters migrate to other states for livelihood. But I am receiving reports of them being harassed, called outsiders, and treated with disdain. This is not acceptable. Every Indian has a right to work and live in any state,” she said.
Her statement is being interpreted as a direct reference to recent incidents where workers from Bengal, especially those in Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Delhi NCR, have faced xenophobic backlash and labor rights violations.
She called upon Durga Puja committees and civil society to raise awareness and offer solidarity to the affected migrant families. “If needed, we will bring our people back and ensure they have jobs in Bengal,” she added.
Migrant Workers in Bengal and Beyond
| State | Estimated Migrants from Bengal (Lakhs) | Major Employment Sectors | Reported Harassment Cases (2023-25) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maharashtra | 6.2 | Construction, Textile, Domestic Help | Moderate |
| Gujarat | 4.7 | Diamond Cutting, Retail, Manufacturing | High |
| Delhi NCR | 3.9 | Delivery, Housekeeping, Security | Moderate |
| Karnataka | 2.5 | Hospitality, IT Services (Low-end jobs) | Low |
| Tamil Nadu | 2.1 | Garments, Construction | Low |
The state has also begun reviewing its migration policies and job generation initiatives, including plans to promote local employment through MSMEs and state-sponsored cooperatives.
Political and Cultural Significance of the Announcement
The increase in Durga Puja grants comes just months after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, where the Trinamool Congress performed well in urban and semi-urban constituencies but showed signs of weakening in migrant-dominated rural belts.
Analysts believe Mamata Banerjee is strategically combining cultural pride and regional sensitivity to bolster her party’s presence across various voter segments.
| Voter Bloc | TMC Vote Share (2024) | Key Concerns |
|---|---|---|
| Urban Hindu Middle Class | 58% | Culture, Governance, Infrastructure |
| Rural Migrant Families | 42% | Employment, Safety in Other States |
| Muslim Minority | 67% | Welfare, Education, Social Security |
| Women Voters | 61% | Safety, Subsidies, Health |
The upcoming Panchayat and 2026 Assembly elections will be key in evaluating whether this blend of cultural generosity and political advocacy will resonate long-term.
Opposition Reacts
While the ruling TMC has defended the dual focus on culture and social justice, opposition parties like BJP and Congress have raised concerns.
BJP’s Suvendu Adhikari called the announcement “a diversion tactic” to shift attention from the state’s employment crisis. “This is a populist move. What about the lakhs of jobless youth in Bengal?” he questioned.
Meanwhile, Congress’s Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury urged the CM to maintain the religious neutrality of the state while delivering economic support.
A Festival for Unity or Political Muscle?
Despite criticisms, Durga Puja remains an important socio-cultural touchpoint in Bengal, blending spiritual fervor, artistic expression, and economic opportunity. The government’s continued support only reflects the festival’s evolving stature—not just as a religious event but as a vital node of public policy and social messaging.
Disclaimer: This article is based on public events, government declarations, and socio-political commentary. It does not reflect the personal views of the publisher. Readers are encouraged to corroborate information with official channels and independent sources.
