Kolkata, May 11: Following her appointment in the West Bengal government, Minister Agnimitra Paul held her first review meeting with officials at Nagarayan Bhavan on Monday. After taking office, she engaged in detailed discussions about departmental priorities and upcoming plans.
In an exclusive interview with a news agency post-meeting, Paul stated that she has been assigned significant departments such as Women and Child Welfare and Municipal Affairs. She emphasized the substantial responsibility these roles entail and the need for extensive work in these areas. Key issues under her department include the Prime Minister’s Housing Scheme, sanitation, and household water supply. Reviving stalled metro projects will be a top priority.
The minister highlighted that special attention will be given to improving city cleanliness and basic amenities under the Swachh Bharat Mission. Additionally, efforts will be made towards women’s safety and empowerment, including the establishment of a women’s police battalion, job reservations in state employment, and creating new job and self-employment opportunities. Regarding the development of the Ganges River, she noted that insufficient progress has been made despite its potential. Proper development of the riverbanks will be undertaken, along with plans to develop four new cities in North Bengal.
Expressing concern over illegal constructions and the depletion of water bodies, Paul remarked that such activities increased during the previous administration. She assured that the Green Tribunal’s regulations would be strictly enforced, prioritizing environmental protection. The goal is to make Kolkata and all municipalities beautiful and well-organized.
On the Women and Child Development department, she reiterated that women’s safety and empowerment are her top priorities. Under the Annapurna Bhandar scheme, financial assistance of 3,000 rupees will be directly transferred to women’s bank accounts through DBT. The Chief Minister has directed that this initiative be implemented starting June 1. She clarified that the beneficiaries’ list will be verified, ensuring that only eligible citizens receive the benefits of the schemes.
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