BJP MP Samik Bhattacharya has called on the West Bengal government to take swift steps to secure a large-scale chemical park under the Centre’s ₹3,030-crore ‘BHAVYA Rasayan’ scheme, terming it a “historic opportunity” for the state’s industrial growth.

In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, Bhattacharya emphasised that the state must move quickly and submit a strong proposal before other states advance in the competitive selection process. He noted that the Union Cabinet, on July 24, approved the establishment of three modern chemical parks across the country through a “challenge route,” with a maximum central grant of ₹1,000 crore for each project.

Highlighting potential sites, the MP suggested Singur as a viable option, provided land-related disputes are avoided. He also identified Haldia, Raghunathpur and Durgapur as strategic alternatives. However, he clarified that the state government is free to select any suitable, controversy-free land that meets infrastructure requirements.

Under the scheme guidelines, the state must identify at least 2,000 acres of contiguous land and contribute ₹500 crore towards the project.

Investment and infrastructure boost

Bhattacharya stated that securing the project could unlock not only central funding but also attract substantial domestic and foreign private investments. He added that the initiative could lead to the development of infrastructure worth at least ₹1,500 crore through joint efforts by the Centre and the state.

The MP underlined the broader economic benefits, noting that the proposed chemical park would generate employment across sectors such as chemicals, construction, logistics and MSMEs. He said industries including textiles, pharmaceuticals, electronics, automobiles and agriculture would benefit both directly and indirectly.

He also highlighted that the project would facilitate the creation of modern waste management systems and Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETP), ensuring environmentally sustainable industrial growth.

Link to emerging sectors

Referring to the Centre’s push for industrial expansion, Bhattacharya pointed out that investments are also being encouraged in emerging sectors like semiconductors. In this context, he noted that the Chief Minister has expressed interest in attracting investments from the Tata Group in the semiconductor space.

To fast-track the process, Bhattacharya proposed four key measures:

Formation of an inter-departmental task force involving the Industries Department and WBIDC

Preparation of documentation for 2,000 acres of dispute-free land

Allocation of the ₹500 crore state contribution in the upcoming budget

Close coordination with the Union Ministry of Chemicals and Petrochemicals

Political and administrative follow-up

Bhattacharya assured full cooperation in facilitating coordination with the Centre. Copies of his letter have been sent to State Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta, Industries Minister Tapas Roy, and the state’s Industry Secretary.

The proposal is expected to intensify discussions around industrialisation in West Bengal as the state evaluates its options to secure a place in the Centre’s ambitious chemical park programme.

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