As West Bengal approaches Assembly elections, women from various sectors emphasize the importance of job creation, safety, and long-term empowerment in the state. While acknowledging the positive impact of existing welfare schemes like Lakshmir Bhandar and Kanyashree, women express the need for more opportunities and equal access to professional growth for sustained empowerment.
In the cultural domain, there is a call for enhanced institutional support to match the abundant talent in West Bengal. Artists advocate for improved cultural infrastructure, fair opportunities, and a transparent support system to bolster the creative industry. Additionally, they stress the importance of pension plans for senior artists, accessible medical facilities, and support for independent artists.
Safety remains a key concern for women in the state, with calls for stronger and more consistent law enforcement actions. Transparency in budget allocation and implementation is highlighted as crucial for fostering a conducive environment for new businesses and investments. Moreover, reopening closed schools, transparent teacher recruitment processes, and inclusion of civic education in school curricula are seen as essential steps for progress.
Looking ahead, the focus is on moving beyond mere financial assistance towards establishing sustainable systems for progress. Women emphasize the need for concrete steps to retain the youth workforce within the state by creating job opportunities and discouraging the privatization of education. Ensuring women’s rights, safety, and security in workplaces are also underscored as critical aspects that the next government should prioritize.
