West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, addressing a major traders' gathering in Kolkata, launched a robust defence of her government's economic record while hitting out at detractors she accused of spreading negativity and defamation. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief cited official data to counter narratives on debt and unemployment, and unveiled new initiatives aimed at boosting trade.
Defending Bengal's Economic Record
Speaking at the conference organised by the Confederation of West Bengal Trade Associations at Netaji Indoor Stadium on Wednesday, December 18, 2025, Banerjee presented a series of figures to showcase the state's progress. A central claim was a 40 percent reduction in unemployment, which she stressed was based on a Niti Aayog report and not state government data. "Despite our state being deprived, we have reduced unemployment by 40 percent. This information is mentioned in a report of Niti Aayog, and not the state government," she stated.
She expressed frustration that positive work was being overshadowed. "And still our name is defamed… Some people only spread negativity. The reality is very different," the TMC chief added. Banerjee also rejected what she called "ignorant" allegations that the state's debt has ballooned to nearly Rs 7 lakh crore.
MSMEs as the Backbone, and a Dig at the Centre
Emphasising the critical role of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and neighbourhood shops, Banerjee declared them the backbone of Bengal's economy and key drivers of job creation. "Small is beautiful. MSMEs keep the economy moving," she said, crediting policy support for reducing joblessness and expanding credit access to small traders.
The Chief Minister reiterated long-standing grievances against the central government, asserting that West Bengal has to run all projects "even when the Centre does not pay our dues," which she claimed now amount to Rs 1.97 lakh crore. Without directly naming Prime Minister Narendra Modi, she took a swipe, saying, "Nothing happens when the Prime Minister talks about tea. When I say something, many questions are raised."
Announcements for Trade Growth
Banerjee used the platform to announce several forward-looking measures for the business community:
- Formation of the West Bengal Traders Welfare Board to resolve trade-related issues, which will meet every month.
- Creation of separate business hubs for trade and export sectors in Kolkata and Siliguri to propel the state's commerce.
- A special government emphasis on improving packaging and branding in the coming days.
She bolstered her arguments with more data, stating that the state's exports have crossed Rs 1.15 lakh crore, while the number of registered companies has exceeded 2.5 lakh—figures she said contradict claims of businesses fleeing Bengal. Furthermore, she highlighted that over 93 lakh MSME units are operational in the state and that Bengal's ease of doing business ranking has improved nationally.
Asserting Bengal's pre-eminent position in eastern India, Banerjee said the state has emerged as the commercial capital of eastern and northeastern India, driven by MSME-led growth and its strategic location. She also noted the state's leading role in agriculture, from jute to rice production.
