Category Archives: West Bengal

Crime, West Bengal

Three Impostors Posing as MVI Officers Arrested in Balagarh

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Three Impostors Posing as MVI Officers Arrested in Balagarh

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 11, 2025, Balagarh: In a swift operation, Balagarh police arrested three individuals posing as Motor Vehicles Inspector (MVI) officers and extorting money from motorists. The arrests took place at Ghoshpukur intersection in Somra No. 2 panchayat area following a complaint from a car driver who had been targeted by the impostors.


According to police reports, the three youths were collecting money from various vehicles under the guise of MVI officers. The situation came to light when a car driver reported their activities to the Balagarh police station, revealing that he too had been coerced into paying them. Acting on the written complaint, police officers rushed to the scene and detained the suspects. Upon interrogation, the three admitted they were not affiliated with the MVI, exposing their fraudulent activities.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Ranjit Shil (32), Pankaj Mandal (35), and Jayanta Das (38), all residents of Sheoraphuli, Hooghly. During a press conference held at Balagarh police station, Officer-in-Charge Somdev Patra, Circle Inspector Soumen Biswas, and DSP Crime Abhijit Sinha Mohapatra provided further details of the operation. DSP Mohapatra confirmed the recovery of a Scorpio car used by the suspects, along with several incriminating documents. He added that investigations into other aspects of the case are ongoing.

The arrested trio will be presented in court today. This incident underscores the vigilance of law enforcement and the importance of prompt reporting by citizens to combat fraud and ensure public safety.
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Crime, West Bengal

Sealdah Court to Announce Verdict in Tilottama Case, Justice Awaits

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 11, 2025, Kolkata: The Sealdah court is set to announce its verdict on Saturday, January 18, at 2:30 pm, in the tragic case surrounding the death of young doctor Tilottama at RG Kar Medical College. The incident, which occurred on August 9, caused widespread outrage and raised serious questions about security and accountability within the healthcare system. The judgment comes 5 months and 9 days after the incident that shook the state and the nation.


The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has concluded its investigation and presented its findings to the court. Alongside the agency’s case, Tilottama’s parents have filed a separate application, voicing their belief that more individuals were involved in the crime beyond the accused, Sanjay Rai. They have urged the court to identify and bring to justice any additional culprits. Their statements were also heard in court during the closed-door proceedings on Thursday.

As the court prepares to deliver its judgment, the demand for the harshest punishment for the accused has been reiterated by both the CBI and Tilottama’s grieving parents. The verdict is expected to provide clarity on the accountability for this devastating incident, which has highlighted critical gaps in safety and stirred calls for systemic reform.

All eyes are now on the Sealdah court, where the verdict will finally reveal the outcome of a case that has captured the attention and emotions of the entire state.
Politics, West Bengal

Abhishek Banerjee Faces Setback as Kunal Ghosh’s Call for Artist Boycott Gains Ground

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 11, 2025, Kolkata : The ongoing RG Kar movement has become a flashpoint for political tensions in West Bengal, with the latest developments showing a shift in favor of Trinamool leader Kunal Ghosh. Despite Abhishek Banerjee’s public statement advocating for the right of artists to protest and asserting that no artist’s program should be canceled, the reality seems to be quite different as artists are now facing growing pressure.


On Thursday, the RG Kar movement marked its five-month milestone. Artist Devleena, who has been actively involved in the movement and attended every program in Shyambazar, spoke out about the widespread cancellations of her performances. She shared that despite being invited to various events this winter, all of her programs had been abruptly canceled. Devleena, known for her prominent participation in protests and her visible “We Want Justice” badge, claimed that her participation in movements post-RG Kar case has led to this fallout.

In an emotional statement, Devleena expressed her concerns about the stifling of artistic freedom in the state, calling the situation dangerous for democracy. “They are trying to kill us. I am also on that list. The artistic community of West Bengal is being strangled,” she said. Devleena further claimed to have evidence showing how organizers have been pressured into canceling her performances. She shared messages from event organizers apologizing for their inability to host her due to political reasons, saying, “Didi, I cannot bring you due to political reasons. Please forgive me.”

The issue has sparked significant discussion within the civic community, with many questioning the sincerity of Abhishek Banerjee’s previous assurances that no artist would face discrimination for their political views. The question now arises: did Abhishek Banerjee’s words hold any weight, or has Kunal Ghosh’s call for a boycott of artists critical of the government prevailed? This ongoing saga has raised alarm over the shrinking space for artistic expression and the increasing politicization of cultural events in West Bengal.
Religion, West Bengal

Celebrating Swami Vivekananda’s Legacy: “Swami Vivekananda Milan Mela” Inaugurated in Kolkata

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 11, 2025, Kolkata :  The “Swami Vivekananda Milan Mela” commenced today in celebration of Swami Vivekananda’s 162nd birth anniversary. The fair was officially inaugurated by distinguished guests who lit the ceremonial lamp at Kali Singhi Park. This event, organized jointly by Vivekananda Pathachak and Sanskar Bharati, will continue for the next five days and is open to the public with free entry.


The inaugural ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Swami Gyanolokananda Maharaj, Secretary of Swami Vivekananda’s ancestral home, Colonel (retd) Sabyasachi Bagchi, Sanghadhyak of Ramakrishna Math and Mission, Girishananda Maharaj, and renowned lawyer Anindya Kumar Mitra. In his address, Swami Gyanolokananda Maharaj highlighted the significance of the event, stating, “Vivekananda Milan Mela is an occasion for unity among all. Swamiji’s life and ideology show a new direction in the life of every person.”

Colonel Sabyasachi Bagchi emphasized the importance of Vivekananda’s birthplace, noting, “Swami Vivekananda’s birthplace is our workplace. Our main objective is to present his ideals to everyone.” Girishananda Maharaj added, “Our goal is to reach Swamiji’s knowledge and spiritual ideals to the common people.” Anindya Kumar Mitra called the fair a unique platform to spread Swamiji’s ideology and ideals.

Sudip Dutta, General Secretary of Vivekananda Pathachakra, mentioned that the fair’s primary objective is to bring together people from all walks of life under the banner of Swamiji’s teachings. Subhash Bhattacharya, Vice President and Executive President of Sanskar Bharati West Bengal, shared that they have been celebrating this birth anniversary since 1970, and over the past 15 years, the event has evolved into a grand fair aimed at spreading Swamiji’s philosophy on a larger scale.

The five-day fair will feature a variety of cultural programs, lectures, and exhibitions that aim to educate the public about Swami Vivekananda’s life and philosophy. Organizers hope that the event will serve as a significant gathering for the community, fostering greater understanding and appreciation of Swamiji’s enduring influence on society.
National, West Bengal

Brahmachari Vinod: The Revolutionary Spirit Behind Swami Pranabanandaji Maharaj

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews,  January 10, 2025, Kolkata : 

Brahmachari Vinod, later known as Yugacharya Shrimat Swami Pranabanandaji Maharaj, was not only a freedom fighter but also a spiritual luminary, a nation builder, and a reformer. Born on January 29, 1896, in the village of Bajitpur in Madaripur district to Vishnucharan Bhuiyan and Sarada Devi, his early life was marked by a profound sense of justice and spirituality.

As a young man, Vinod joined the revolutionary Madaripur Samiti, dedicating himself to India’s freedom movement. Arrested in 1914 during the Faridpur conspiracy case, he endured imprisonment but emerged with an unbroken resolve. After his release, he actively sheltered and trained revolutionaries, equipping them with weapons and providing essential support, all while harboring a deep love for his motherland.

In 1913, at the age of 17, Vinod embraced spirituality, taking initiation from Mahayogi Baba Gambhirnathji of Gorakhpur. By 1916, he had achieved spiritual perfection. His transformation from a revolutionary to a spiritual guide culminated in 1924 during the Ardhakumbha Mela in Prayag, where Swami Govindanand Giri formally initiated him into sannyas, renaming him Swami Pranabananda.

Vinod’s father, Vishnucharan Bhuiyan, who faced false accusations while protecting villagers from oppressive landlords, sought divine refuge in their household deity Neelrudra. This sense of justice and resilience undoubtedly influenced young Vinod’s revolutionary and spiritual pursuits.

Swami Pranabanandaji Maharaj’s life is a testament to the seamless blend of activism and spirituality, where a burning passion for freedom met a profound dedication to inner enlightenment.Vinod’s transformative spiritual journey began in 1913 when he took initiation from Mahayogi Baba Gambhirnathji of Gorakhpur. Attaining spiritual perfection by 1916, he embraced sannyas in 1924 during the Ardhakumbha Mela in Prayag under Swami Govindanand Giri, becoming Swami Pranabananda. As the founder of the Bharat Sevashram Sangha and Sri Sri Pranav Math, Swamiji dedicated his life to blending ancient Hindu spirituality with modern societal needs.

Swami Pranabanandaji Maharaj is remembered as one of the greatest spiritual leaders of modern India. He sought to usher Hindu society into the modern age while preserving its essential values. His legacy endures in his teachings of universal love, compassion, and social reform, all infused with an unwavering zeal for the motherland. Swamiji’s contributions as a yogi, nation builder, and freedom fighter continue to inspire reverence and admiration across generations.

National, West Bengal

UGC Reiterates List of Fake Universities; Students Advised to Verify Credentials Before Admission

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 10, 2025, Kolkata : 

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has once again urged students to exercise caution and verify the credentials of universities before seeking admission. The UGC emphasized that only institutions recognized and registered under the UGC Act, 1956, have the legal authority to award degrees in India.

In May 2024, the UGC published a list of fake universities operating without proper accreditation. This list, which remains unchanged, has recently resurfaced on social media. These institutions continue to mislead students despite the UGC’s warnings. The following universities are included in the list of unrecognized institutions:
  1. Christ New Testament Deemed University, Guntur
  2. Bible Open University of India, Vizag
  3. AIIPHS Government University, Delhi
  4. Commercial University Limited, Delhi
  5. United Nations University, Delhi
  6. Vocational University, Delhi
  7. ADR Centric Jurisprudential University, Delhi
  8. IISE, Delhi
  9. Vishwakarma Open University for Self Employment, Delhi
  10. Spiritual University, Delhi
  11. Baraganvi Sarkar World Open University, Belgaum
  12. St. John’s University, Kerala
  13. IIUPM, Kozhikode
The UGC’s repeated alerts highlight the importance of safeguarding students from falling prey to fraudulent institutions. Students are strongly encouraged to refer to the official UGC website for the latest list of recognized universities and ensure that their chosen institutions meet the required standards before proceeding with admission.
West Bengal

Mamata Banerjee to Hold Key Meeting with Doctors Following Grievance Cell Initiative

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 10, 2025, Kolkata : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is set to meet with doctors from medical colleges, district hospitals, state general hospitals, and private healthcare institutions, alongside medical students, on February 24 at the Dhandhanya Auditorium. This pivotal meeting follows a proposal from the State Grievance Cell, which the Chief Minister has accepted.


The State Grievance Cell, established in the wake of the Tilottama incident, has been addressing numerous complaints from healthcare professionals in recent months. Dr. Saurabh Dutt, the cell’s chairman, highlighted the importance of direct communication between the Chief Minister and both junior and senior doctors to address their concerns. The proposal for this meeting was motivated by the need for dialogue and understanding within the healthcare community, and it has received the Chief Minister’s endorsement.

This initiative follows a similar effort by Trinamool MP Abhishek Banerjee, who last year organized a coordination meeting with over a thousand doctors at the Amtala Samadhi Auditorium in Diamond Harbour. That gathering, overseen by Trinamool doctor leader Shantanu Sen, aimed to strengthen ties between healthcare workers and policymakers.

Unlike the earlier event, the current meeting is being organized independently by the State Grievance Cell, marking a shift in approach. Observers are keen to see what message Mamata Banerjee will deliver, particularly in light of the prior gathering led by Abhishek Banerjee.

This meeting underscores the government’s commitment to addressing healthcare challenges through open dialogue and collaboration with medical professionals.
West Bengal

Mamata Banerjee Inaugurates Gangasagar Mela, Ushers in Sustainable Initiatives

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 10, 2025, Kolkata — West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee inaugurated the annual Gangasagar Mela at Outram Ghat, continuing the state’s tradition of hosting this prominent event. She commenced the ceremony by paying homage to Swami Vivekananda, offering a wreath at his portrait to honor his legacy.


In a significant step towards sustainable development, the Chief Minister launched ‘Dheu,’ India’s first NG (Natural Gas) electric ferry vessel. This groundbreaking initiative aims to enhance the water transport system by offering a cleaner, safer, and more comfortable commuting experience, thereby addressing environmental concerns and boosting economic efficiency.

To further bolster the state’s firefighting and emergency response capabilities, 25 fire engines equipped with 5,000-liter mounted pumps, 25 medium-sized fire engines with 2,500-liter capacity, and a new fire station in Jangipur, Murshidabad, were commissioned during the event. These additions represent a commitment to ensuring public safety and preparedness for emergencies.

The Chief Minister expressed optimism about the arrangements for the Gangasagar Mela, emphasizing the meticulous planning undertaken by the government. “From health to security, transportation to administration, everything has been well-coordinated,” she stated. She urged pilgrims to adhere to the guidelines and participate in the holy bath responsibly, underscoring the government’s dedication to round-the-clock service for the event’s success.

The inauguration highlights the administration’s focus on both tradition and progress, blending cultural reverence with innovative advancements to benefit the community.
Education, West Bengal

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee Highlights Educational Progress and Youth Empowerment at Students’ Week Event

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 9, 2025, Kolkata : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee attended the Students’ Week program at Dhandhanya Auditorium, where she presented job appointment letters to the Santosh Trophy winners. During her address, the Chief Minister reflected on her own journey from her student days to her current political role, emphasizing the state’s educational initiatives and the transformative impact they have had on the youth.

Mamata Banerjee underscored the success of the state’s Utkarsh Bangla project, which has already trained 47 lakh students, with 10 lakh of them securing employment. The project’s goal is to equip young people with the skills needed in various industrial sectors, and the Chief Minister assured that companies seeking employees could rely on the trained candidates from Utkarsh Bangla. Additionally, she highlighted the establishment of 500 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and polytechnics across the state, aimed at providing students with high-quality training and preparing them for the workforce.

During her speech, Mamata Banerjee also shared personal anecdotes from her own educational experience, noting that she completed her MA from Calcutta University and studied law, despite having no public recognition at the time. She humorously addressed speculation about her age, admitting to increasing her age by five years, and reflected on how her identity had evolved. “Even my name is not my choice. But whatever happens, happens,” she remarked, adding, “When I walk, my brain works. And when I don’t walk, I feel like I am not doing anything.”

Her words resonated with the audience, highlighting the Chief Minister’s continuous drive for progress and the empowerment of the state’s youth through educational initiatives that provide both skills and opportunities for the future. 

Career / Jobs, Education, West Bengal

SC to Hear Pleas on WB School Recruitment Case Regarding Staff Appointment Cancellations on January 15

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The Supreme Court on Tuesday said it will hear on January 15 pleas of the West Bengal government challenging the April 22, 2024 High Court order that invalidated and cancelled the appointment of 25,753 teachers and non-teaching staff in the state government run and aided schools.

PARMOD KUMAR | SNS | New Delhi | January 7, 2025 : The Supreme Court on Tuesday said it will hear on January 15 pleas of the West Bengal government challenging the April 22, 2024 High Court order that invalidated and cancelled the appointment of 25,753 teachers and non-teaching staff in the state government run and aided schools.

At the outset of the hearing today, Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna heading a bench also comprising Justice Sanjay Kumar and Justice K V Viswanathan, said that there are two options before it — either a three-judge bench re-hears the case all over again or it be listed it before a two-judge bench that had begun hearing the final arguments on December 19, 2024, – the last date of hearing.

Noting the submissions advanced by the advocates, the Chief Justice Khanna said that the matter will be heard by a two-judge bench comprising him and Justice Sanjay Kumar and posted the matter for hearing on January 15, 2025, at 02.00 pm.

On December 19, 2024, a bench of Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar had a detailed but inconclusive hearing on a batch of petitions including one by the West Bengal government challenging the High Court order invalidating and canceling the recruitment of teachers and the non-teaching staff for the government-run and aided schools.

During the last (December 19, 2024) hearing, the top court had highlighted the need to examine the authenticity of the electronic data stored in the database of the School Service Commission (SSC) in order to understand whether there can be a distinction made between ‘tainted’ and ‘untainted’ candidates.

On May 7, the Supreme Court had partially stayed the April 22, 2024, Calcutta HC order cancelling the appointment of 25,753 assistant teachers and non-teaching staff in West Bengal state run/aided schools, subject to the final outcome of the hearing, of the petitions challenging the High Court order.

By the May 7, 2024, order, while extending its November 9, 2023, interim order, the top court bench comprising then Chief Justice Chandrachud (since retired), Justice Pardiwala and Justice Misra in Achinta Kumar Mondal vs Laxmi Tunga case had first granted protection to the teaching and non-teaching staff whose services were to be terminated by an interim order of the High Court.

The November 9, 2023, order was continued by May 7, 2024, order, subject to the condition that “any person who is found to have been appointed illegally and is continued as a consequence of the present order shall undertake to refund the entire amount of the salary which may be paid between the date of this order and the final judgment of this Court.”

Protecting the services of the staff that were ordered to be terminated by an interim order of the High Court, the Supreme Court by its November 9, 2023, order had said, “the direction of the High Court for the termination of the services of candidates at the interim stage, even before the final disposal of the petitions, ought to have been avoided.”

The appointments which are being described as tainted and whose legality is being questioned were made in pursuance to the 2016 State-level test conducted by the School Service Commission. Results were declared on March 3, 2018 and the merit list came on August 28, 2018. The actual joining took place in January-February 2019.

The West Bengal government had on April 24, moved the top court against the High Court’s order invalidating and cancelling the appointment of 25,753 teachers and the non-teaching staff belonging to Group ‘C’ and Group ‘D’ categories made by the State’s School Service Commission (SSC) in state-run schools. Besides the plea by the West Bengal government, there are other petitions challenging the High Court order.
National, West Bengal

Mamata Banerjee Slams Odisha Government Over Tiger Zeenat’s Relocation to Bengal

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews,  January 8, 2025, Kolkata : 

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her displeasure on Monday over the ongoing tiger relocation issues, specifically the case of Zeenat, a three-year-old tigress that had wandered through three states, covering 300 kilometers, before entering West Bengal from Odisha. The tigress, who had escaped from Odisha’s Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) on December 8, was sedated and captured in a forest near Gosaindihi village in Bankura district on December 29 after causing significant disruptions across West Bengal.

Zeenat’s journey through Odisha, Jharkhand, and finally into West Bengal caused considerable distress to local communities. According to Banerjee, the Bengal Forest Department’s efforts to safely capture and repatriate the tigress to its original habitat were exemplary. “The way we handled the situation, without causing any harm to the tigress, is a model for tiger management,” Banerjee stated. She criticized the Odisha government for not acknowledging Bengal’s humane approach to the crisis, while also accusing them of failing to protect their own wildlife.

The Chief Minister particularly expressed frustration over the disruption caused by Zeenat’s entry into Bengal. “Five districts of West Bengal were practically locked down at that time. People could not leave their homes, and schools had to be closed. We endured the ordeal, and later, they asked us to return the tiger,” she remarked, highlighting the challenges faced by local authorities and residents.

Zeenat, who had been relocated to Similipal Tiger Reserve of Odisha from Maharashtra’s Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve in November 2024 to help strengthen the gene pool of the reserve, managed to escape on December 8. Her journey through Jharkhand and West Bengal, where she was sighted and eventually captured, has raised concerns over the handling of tiger relocation and the safety of residents in the affected areas.

Banerjee, in her address, also called on the Odisha government to take more responsibility, urging them to send rescue teams to ensure such incidents do not recur. “The life of people in Bengal has been disrupted again due to this big cat entering the state. The Odisha government, unable to protect its wildlife like tigers, should take a proactive role in preventing such situations,” she said.

The Chief Minister’s comments underscore the ongoing tension between neighboring states regarding wildlife management and tiger conservation. While Bengal has implemented strategies to safeguard both the animals and public safety, Banerjee’s remarks reflect her frustration with the lack of coordination from Odisha’s forest authorities in managing the movement of wildlife across state borders.

As Bengal continues to work towards the safety of its residents, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting both wildlife and human life, stating that no further disturbances will be tolerated. “We love wild animals, but human life must also be safeguarded,” Banerjee concluded.

Crime, West Bengal

Fraudulent Scheme Unveiled: Young Man Arrested for Using Forged Number Plate to Evade Traffic Fines

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews,  January 8, 2025, Kolkata : In an unusual case of fraud, a young man has been arrested for using a forged number plate to exploit the online traffic fine system. The police have also seized a bike involved in the scheme. According to police sources, the incident unfolded during a routine naka checking on the night of January 4 at the Rajarhat intersection.


At the checkpoint, the police seized a bike, which was then issued an online fine for a traffic violation. A fine notice was promptly sent to the phone linked to the vehicle’s registration number. However, the message was inadvertently sent to a person named Dipanjan Kar, whose registered vehicle also bore the same number. Dipanjan, who owns a four-wheeler Maruti car, was taken aback by the fine message, as his car was currently in the garage for repairs at that time.

Shocked by the notification, Dipanjan immediately contacted the Rajarhat police station. Upon investigation, it was revealed that the vehicle associated with the fine was linked to his Maruti car, which is registered at the Barasat RTO. Further probing uncovered that the bike in question had the same number plate as Dipanjan’s car, and the registration details were found to be associated with a different individual – one Bhaskarat Krishna Mandal, a resident of the Shashan area.

The police began an investigation into how the fraudulent registration and forged number plate were created. Initial findings suggest that a Blue Book for the bike was forged, potentially indicating a larger scam involving the RTO. Investigators are looking into whether a gang might be behind this operation and whether there was any corruption or malfeasance within the RTO.

The arrested individual, Bhaskarat Krishna Mandal, will be produced in court today. Authorities are continuing to probe the case to uncover the full extent of the fraud and any other individuals or networks that may be involved.

This incident highlights the growing concerns regarding the misuse of forged documents and online systems, prompting calls for stricter verification processes to prevent such fraudulent activities.
Economy, Politics, West Bengal

Mamata Banerjee Returns to Kolkata, Plans Key Meeting on World Bengal Trade Conference and Infrastructure Development

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, January 8, 2025 : Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee returned to Kolkata today after her visit to the Gangasagar Fair, where she took stock of the arrangements for the annual event. Upon her return, the Chief Minister has called for an emergency meeting at Nabanna, scheduled for tomorrow, January 9, to discuss important matters, including the upcoming World Bengal Trade Conference, slated for February 5-6. The conference is expected to be a major platform for showcasing Bengal’s industrial potential ahead of the 2026 assembly elections.


Sources within the administration revealed that the meeting will involve detailed discussions with administrative officials on the planning and execution of the trade conference. Chief Minister Banerjee has been proactive in organizing the event, holding multiple meetings with administrative officials to ensure its success. The World Bengal Trade Conference is seen as a significant initiative to attract global attention to the state’s industrial capabilities, especially as the Chief Minister aims to present Bengal as a key investment hub.

In this crucial meeting, the Chief Minister is expected to receive a comprehensive report from state officials, including Chief Secretary Manoj Pant, on the progress made so far. Last week, a high-level meeting was held under the Chief Secretary’s leadership, and this upcoming session will provide an opportunity for further review and fine-tuning of the plans. Once the Chief Minister gives her approval, the work on the conference will begin in earnest.

Banerjee has placed a strong emphasis on industrial development and attracting investment to West Bengal. She has previously undertaken foreign tours to bring in investments and now intends to leverage this trade conference as a platform to bring the state’s potential to the people. Her vision is to generate employment for Bengal’s educated youth by showcasing the state as an ideal destination for industries. Representatives from the West Bengal Industrial Development Corporation (WBIDC) will also be present to update the Chief Minister on the progress of various industrial and infrastructure development initiatives.

Earlier today, in a separate event, the Chief Minister inaugurated 30 projects and laid the foundation stones for 19 more in South 24 Parganas district, with an estimated financial value of ₹153 crore for completed projects and ₹61 crore for ongoing ones. Notable initiatives include the construction of 17 Anganwadi centers in Sagar block, 12 jetties across Patharpratima, Gosaba, and Namkhana blocks, and the upgrading of the Canning bus terminus. Three bridges over the Moni, Sundarika-Dwarika, and Piyali rivers were also inaugurated. These projects, aimed at improving the quality of life for approximately 19 lakh residents, are seen as vital to the region’s infrastructure and economic development.

In her address, the Chief Minister also emphasized her deep emotional connection with Sagar Island and the Gangasagar Mela, stating that the fair had created a special bond of love between her and the people of the region. To ensure the convenience of pilgrims attending the fair, the government has put in place a range of services, including a stretched power line over the Muriganga river, three permanent helipads, 2,250 government buses, and 250 private buses. Additionally, 100 launches, 21 jetties, and over 12,000 toilets will be made available for the smooth conduct of the fair. A new initiative this year includes providing biodegradable carry bags for devotees to promote an eco-friendly and sustainable fair.

Banerjee also assured that government officials, along with many volunteers, will be working tirelessly around the clock to ensure the welfare of all those attending the fair. She expressed her heartfelt wishes for the well-being of the pilgrims, saying, “With a pious heart, bid farewell to all the unhappy and become a part of this pious bath – this is my prayer to the Almighty.” She urged everyone to participate in the religious event with devotion and unity.

The Chief Minister’s initiatives reflect her ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure, attract investment, and ensure the welfare of the people in both urban and rural areas across the state.
Education, West Bengal

Report Highlights Worsening Education Crisis in Bengal: Increased Dropout Rates and School Closures

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, January 7, 2025: A recent report by the central government paints a grim picture of the state of education in Bengal, highlighting alarming trends that differ sharply from the situation in other parts of India. The dropout rate in classes nine and ten has surged by more than 12 percent, showing a sharp increase in students leaving school in these crucial years. In comparison, states like Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan have reported lower dropout rates, underlining the severity of the issue in Bengal.


The report also reveals that over 6,000 schools in the state are functioning with just one teacher, making it increasingly difficult to deliver quality education. In many cases, a single teacher is responsible for managing multiple grades and subjects, which compromises the learning experience for students. This situation has been exacerbated by the state’s ongoing struggle with regular teacher recruitment, leaving vacancies unfilled in schools, especially in rural areas, for years. As a result, students often lose interest in their education due to a lack of adequate guidance and support, contributing further to the rising dropout rates.

The situation is also dire for many schools, with over 1,500 institutions facing the threat of closure due to a lack of student enrollment, exacerbating the crisis. The report paints a stark picture of Bengal’s education system, where even basic infrastructure and resources are lacking.

Experts offer insights into the causes behind these worrying trends. According to their analysis, of every 100 students progressing from ninth to tenth grade, 12 drop out of the education system altogether. This leads to the pressing question: where do these students go? Experts suggest that many of these dropouts are being forced into child labor as they seek to contribute to their families’ incomes. Additionally, a number of students are migrating to other states in search of better opportunities.

The root cause of this rising dropout rate, according to experts, can be traced to several systemic issues within the education system. A significant factor is the absence of a pass-fail policy up to the eighth grade. This often leads to students progressing through the system without gaining sufficient knowledge or skills, making it harder for them to continue their education beyond a certain point. Moreover, the removal of the mid-day meal scheme for students in class nine has been cited as another contributing factor. The mid-day meal program, which has been crucial for keeping students engaged in school, has been discontinued for higher classes, making education less appealing for many students.

Another challenge faced by families is the rising cost of education. For many households, continuing education beyond class eight becomes a financial burden, as parents are required to spend considerable amounts on additional resources like books, uniforms, and tuition. This is pushing many students out of the education system in favor of earning money to support their families.

The report calls for urgent reforms to address these challenges, including measures to reduce dropout rates, improve school infrastructure, and provide better financial support for students and their families. Without these changes, experts warn that Bengal’s education system may continue to face a downward spiral, leaving many children deprived of the opportunities education can provide.


Also Read: https://kalimpongonlinenews.blogspot.com/2025/01/bengal-achieves-zero-per-cent-dropout.html