Bengal cabinet approves 100 new appointments across health, finance & water departments

On Thursday, the State Cabinet held a meeting at Nabanna, making significant decisions in health, agriculture, power, and finance to strengthen infrastructure and public services. Key among these decisions was the appointment of 100 new and vacant posts across various departments, a timely response to pressing vacancies in the health and other critical sectors.

In an effort to bolster health services, 18 new positions and 16 vacant posts in the Department of Health were approved, covering doctors, paramedics, and other essential health workers. These appointments come at a crucial time as healthcare demand continues to rise in the state. The Home Department’s ‘Karma Bandhu’ project will also see 57 new appointments, further strengthening the government’s community outreach and administrative efficiency.

The Water Resources Department received approval for 7 new positions, with additional roles in the Finance Department and Environment Department, as the state focuses on improving water management and environmental oversight. This comprehensive drive to fill existing vacancies is aimed at ensuring all departments function optimally to meet public needs.

Agriculture, a major state priority, also saw new funding provisions. The Cabinet approved the State Agriculture and Rural Development Bank’s request to borrow Rs 1,500 crore from NABARD and State Cooperative Bank. This substantial fund, backed by the state government as guarantor, will facilitate essential agricultural projects, aiding both rural development and sustainability in farming. With this funding, the government aims to enhance financial stability and empower local farmers with greater access to resources.

Additionally, the Cabinet approved the construction of a 660 MW super critical power plant at Durgapur Projects Limited (DPL) through a joint venture with private entities. This project will not only contribute to the state’s energy grid but also reduce carbon emissions by using advanced technology, supporting the state's commitment to sustainable development.

In the financial sector, the state has agreed to lease around 3.5 acres of land in the Newtown Financial Hub to HDFC Bank Authority. This allocation will enable HDFC to expand its financial operations, attracting further investments in the financial hub and providing enhanced banking services for residents.

These wide-ranging decisions reflect the government’s multi-sectoral approach to development, with immediate investments in healthcare, agriculture, power, and finance. The Cabinet’s actions are a part of the state’s ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure, enhance economic growth, and create employment opportunities, bringing renewed hope to various sectors during these challenging times.