West Bengal CM Hikes Honorarium to Community Durga Pujas by 30%
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has announced a significant hike in the honorarium paid to community Durga Puja committees across the state, raising the grant amount to Rs 1.10 lakh per committee — up from Rs 85,000 last year, marking almost a 30% increase. This enhancement is aimed at enabling puja organizers to better manage expenses amid rising costs and to preserve the grandeur of the festival, which holds immense cultural importance in Bengal.
Details of the Grant Hike
The new honorarium will be disbursed to nearly 40,000 Durga Puja committees statewide.
The increase from Rs 85,000 to Rs 1,10,000 was announced at a mega coordination meeting of Puja organizers held at the Netaji Indoor Stadium, Kolkata.
This grant hike exceeds the CM’s earlier promise to raise the amount to Rs 1 lakh in 2025 by Rs 10,000 more, showing additional government support.
Additional Support Measures
An 80% concession on electricity bills for Puja pandals has been granted.
Complete waiver of all government fees and taxes, including fire licenses and civic body charges from Kolkata Municipal Corporation, panchayats, and municipalities.
These measures collectively aim to reduce the financial burden on organizers and facilitate safe, well-managed festivities.
Cultural and Political Context
Mamata Banerjee emphasized Durga Puja as not just a religious festival but a "lifeline of Bengal's cultural identity", recently recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage.
The timing of this announcement, just over a year ahead of the 2026 Assembly polls, has drawn some criticism from opposition parties, who allege the move is politically motivated to win favor with community organizers.
Banerjee and her party argue the grant increases reflect the inclusive cultural ethos of Bengal and the government's commitment to preserving traditional festivals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About West Bengal CM’s Durga Puja Honorarium Hike
Q1: What is the new honorarium amount for Durga Puja committees in West Bengal?
The honorarium has been increased to Rs 1.10 lakh per committee, up from Rs 85,000 last year.
Q2: How many Durga Puja committees will benefit from this grant?
Nearly 40,000 committees across West Bengal are set to receive this grant.
Q3: Apart from the honorarium, what other assistance has been announced?
An 80% discount on electricity bills for Puja pandals, waiver of taxes, fire licenses, and fees by civic agencies.
Q4: Why has the grant hike been criticized by opposition parties?
Opposition leaders claim it is a politically motivated handout ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
Q5: How does the West Bengal government justify this grant increase?
The government views the Durga Puja as integral to Bengal’s cultural heritage and aims to support festival organizers against rising costs.
Q6: When will the Durga Puja Carnival and festivities take place?
The carnival is scheduled for October 5, with immersions planned between October 2 and 4, 2025.
Published on: August 1, 2025
Published by: PAVAN
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