Kolkata
Durga Puja Grants May Continue, But Not for All Committees: Adhikari
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has indicated that the state’s Durga Puja grant scheme could continue under the new administration, but with a more targeted approach. He suggested that financial assistance should be reserved for organisers genuinely in need, instead of being distributed uniformly to all committees.
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Friday hinted at a possible change in the state’s much-debated Durga Puja grant policy, suggesting that future financial assistance could be based on need rather than being distributed equally among all puja organisers.
Addressing a press conference in Kolkata, Adhikari said that no final decision has yet been taken regarding this year’s Durga Puja grants, but indicated that the BJP-led government was examining a more selective approach to the scheme.
The Durga Puja grant, introduced during the tenure of former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has been one of the state’s most politically significant welfare initiatives. Under the previous system, financial assistance was extended to thousands of registered Durga Puja committees across West Bengal, irrespective of their individual financial capacity.
Adhikari suggested that such a uniform distribution model may be reconsidered.
According to the Chief Minister, organisers who have the resources to independently manage large-scale celebrations may not require government assistance, while smaller committees that struggle with rising organisational expenses should receive priority support.
The remarks signal a potential shift in policy from universal assistance to a more targeted framework aimed at ensuring efficient utilisation of public funds.
Durga Puja, one of the most celebrated festivals in West Bengal, is not only a religious and cultural event but also a major contributor to the state’s economy. The festival generates employment opportunities across sectors such as decoration, lighting, handicrafts, hospitality, transportation, and retail.
Any modification to the grant structure is therefore expected to attract significant public and political attention, particularly as Durga Puja committees often rely on financial support to organise community celebrations.
Adhikari’s comments have sparked fresh debate over balancing cultural patronage with fiscal prudence. While supporters of a targeted approach argue that government resources should benefit those with genuine financial needs, critics may view the move as a departure from a scheme that had become synonymous with broad-based support for community festivities.
The state government is expected to take a final decision on this year’s grant policy ahead of the upcoming Durga Puja season.