PARTHA ROY, KOLKATA: West Bengal government is set to announce a new industrial policy by August, aiming to position the state as a leading manufacturing destination by 2027, said Shri Tapas Roy, Minister-in-Charge of Industry, Commerce and Enterprises, at the 13th CII Manufacturing Conclave East on 18th July 2026.

Roy emphasised the creation of an industry-friendly ecosystem through a transparent policy featuring single-window clearances, GIS-enabled land banks, incentives, and cluster development. “The Government expects to announce the next phase of its industrial roadmap by August,” he stated. The state is also prioritising Global Capability Centres, a new Startup Policy, and simplified compliance to boost ease of doing business and generate quality employment.

British Deputy High Commissioner Andrew Fleming highlighted the India-UK FTA’s potential to reduce costs and foster collaborations. Cmde P Hari (Retd.), CMD, GRSE Ltd, announced plans to invest ₹2,000 crore in the state, stressing ancillary industries and self-reliance in defence by 2047. Maj Gen C S Mann, Addl Director General, Army Design Bureau, called for greater startup participation in iDEX.

Mr Kamal Bali, President & MD, Volvo Group India, noted India’s 7.5% GDP growth and the shift of economic power to the East. Other speakers including RAdm V Ganapathy, Mr Suresh Agarwal, Mr Vikash Lohia, and Mr Anirban Banerjee underlined MSME support, port connectivity, and East India’s strategic advantages in global supply chains. The conclave focused on supply chains, defence manufacturing, and traditional sectors.