Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], July 31 (ANI): West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced a grant of Rs 1.10 lakh to each Durga Puja committee in the state during a coordination meeting with Durga Puja organizers in Kolkata on Thursday.
Addressing a large gathering, CM Banerjee said, “Each Durga Puja committee in West Bengal will now receive Rs 1.10 lakh as a grant from the West Bengal government. We hold this coordination meeting every year before Durga Puja to ensure proper planning and that there are no shortcomings in traffic arrangements, drinking water, health facilities, or electricity.”
She emphasized the inclusive culture of Bengal, stating, “People from every religion are included, as that is the culture in Bengal. We participate in the cultural festivals of all religions. Durga Puja is inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, so it is our responsibility to organize it properly.”
Responding to critics, she added, “Some people allege that Mamata Banerjee does not allow the conduct of Durga Puja or Saraswati Puja. But the fact is Saraswati Puja is celebrated in every home. There are no festivals that are not celebrated here. Around 45,000 pujas are held in clubs—over 42,000 in the state police area and nearly 3,000 in the Kolkata police area.”
The Chief Minister also announced that idol immersions will take place on October 2, 3, and 4. She directed authorities to deploy mobile patrolling teams, quick response teams, drones, and CCTV surveillance to ensure safety and instructed that the police control room operate 24/7 to prevent any stampede-like situations.
Additionally, she announced an 80 percent concession in electricity bills for puja committees and said a one-window system is available for obtaining NOC-related permissions.
Durga Puja, also known as Durgotsava or Sharodotsava, is an annual Hindu festival that honors Goddess Durga and celebrates her triumph over the demon Mahishasur. Beyond its religious significance, the festival is widely revered for celebrating compassion, brotherhood, humanity, art, and culture. From the rhythmic beats of the ‘dhaak’ to new clothes and festive cuisine, the atmosphere across the state remains vibrant and joyous throughout the celebrations.
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