West Bengal Budget 2026: Shubhendu Government Unveils First Full Budget with 35% Women Reservation and Major Welfare Push

The West Bengal government has presented its first full budget for the financial year 2026-27, marking a significant policy milestone under Chief Minister Shubhendu Adhikari’s leadership. The budget introduces several major welfare and governance measures aimed at fulfilling key promises made during the election campaign. One of the most prominent announcements is the provision of 35% reservation for women, a move expected to strengthen female participation across various sectors. The government has also announced a 20% increase in dearness allowance (DA) for state government employees, offering relief amid rising living costs. In another key decision, the monthly honorarium of civic police personnel has been increased by ₹2,000. The budget further boosts development funding at the grassroots level by raising the MLA Local Area Development Fund from ₹70 lakh to ₹1 crore. Addressing employment concerns, the government announced plans to fill nearly one lakh vacant posts across departments. The recruitment drive is being seen as one of the largest employment initiatives in the state in recent years and is expected to generate significant opportunities for job seekers. Before presenting the budget in the state assembly, Chief Minister Shubhendu Adhikari and Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta performed traditional prayers. Adding a cultural touch to the occasion, budget documents were carried in files made from traditional Bengali mats and jute, highlighting the state’s commitment to promoting local craftsmanship and heritage. The budget is being viewed as an attempt to balance welfare spending, employment generation, and administrative reforms while delivering on several promises made by the ruling party during the election campaign. Political observers believe the announcements could have a major impact on the state’s social and economic landscape in the coming years.

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