New Delhi, Mar 15 (KNN) With a view to increase footfalls and employment in hills, the amount of 1,500 crore has been received by the Bengal government on the last day of First Hill Business Summit that held on March 13 in Darjeeling.

The proposal of 1500 crore came into action when chief minister Mamta Banerjee offered Rs 100 crore from her government as seed money for setting up business in the area as token of state’s commitment  towards the development of the Hills.

The idea behind offering this large amount for the development of hills is to support younger generation who in search of employment moves out of the hills.  

The CM also highlighted that not only the support in financial terms come from Ambuja Neotia Group and Keventer Agro but also Laxmi Tea Group MD Rudra Chatterjee has promised to invest Rs 350 crore in Makaibari and Matigara.
Stating investor’s interest in investing money and proposals coming, CM said “The CII has prepared a draft plan on the potential of the area. The MSME department will be doing the synergy to offer the single-window clearance for business.”

Further she mentioned that the government will be recruiting 3,000 home guards from the Hills and will also clear the salaries of the Gorakhland Territorial Administration employees.

She said “Darjeeling is the brand name for the people from across the world”.
Further she added that Darjeeling has the ample potential, talent and beautiful culture with extraordinary music talent, therefore in order to enhance the beauty of Darjeeling cultural hubs in Mirik and an education hub in Kurseong will be set up.

She said “Maintain peace and pursue your dream, Dhanalakshmi will come to your doorstep.”

She further mentioned the audience that Bengal government will provide full support to the people of their state so they need to depend on Bengal government and not on Delhi.

In this regard she said “Keep in mind that Bengal is closer to you, Delhi is far away.”

She further requested the hoteliers to set up more hotels as there is shortage of hotels during the peak season and involve youth into home-stay business.

She said government will facilitate better transport and connectivity.

She further announced that her government has already exempted tea gardens from education cess and rural employment cess for 2018-19 and is giving 50% concession on tea tourism. (KNN/YV)