Kolkata: The West Bengal government has announced a major push to revive the state’s micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) sector, including plans to reopen around 8,000 closed factories, according to Minister of State for MSME and Textiles Ashok Dinda.
Speaking at an interactive session organised by the Merchants’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), the minister said the MSME sector—one of the largest employment generators in the state—has been facing challenges in recent years and requires urgent revitalisation.
MSME Sector Under Revival Focus
Minister Ashok Dinda said that West Bengal has approximately 90 lakh MSMEs, providing employment to nearly 1.35 crore people. However, he acknowledged that the sector has been “languishing” and needs structured support for recovery and growth.
He emphasized that nearly 8,000 MSME units are currently closed, and reopening them will be a key priority for the government.
Government Targets Reopening of Closed Factories
The state government has identified the revival of closed industrial units as a major economic priority. According to the minister, the focus will be on:
- Reopening around 8,000 closed MSME factories
- Reviving industrial production and employment
- Strengthening small-scale manufacturing ecosystem
He described the challenge as critical for restoring industrial momentum in West Bengal.
Push for Local Industries and ‘Vocal for Local’
Referring to the Centre’s ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative, Dinda said the state government will actively promote local industries and small businesses.
The state budget has already proposed measures to strengthen the MSME sector, including:
- Development of industrial clusters
- Establishment of new industrial parks
- Support for small-scale manufacturing units
Infrastructure and Investment Reforms Planned
The minister highlighted that improving infrastructure is essential to attract investment in both MSME and large-scale industries. Key focus areas include:
- Upgrading road connectivity
- Improving logistics and transport infrastructure
- Creating investor-friendly industrial zones
He also announced that the government will soon operationalise a single-window clearance system to simplify approvals and boost investment inflows.
Efforts to Attract Investment and Restore Confidence
Dinda said several companies have already shown interest in setting up units in West Bengal. The government aims to accelerate industrial growth by creating a more transparent and efficient business environment.
He also stressed the government’s commitment to eliminating issues such as:
- Syndicate-related interference
- Extortion affecting businesses
- Barriers to smooth industrial operations
Focus on Employment and Returning Migrant Workers
The minister added that the government is also working on policies to bring back migrant workers by generating local employment opportunities through MSME revival and industrial expansion.
With plans to reopen thousands of closed factories and strengthen industrial infrastructure, the West Bengal government is positioning MSME revival as a key driver of economic growth and employment generation in the state.
Read also: West Bengal Tourism Plans 90-Day Action Plan and Targets Threefold Rise in Tourist Arrivals
